Eco-Mobility in Lahore, Pakistan: Assessing the Role of Electric Vehicles in Air Pollution Mitigation

Muhammad Farhan Saeed; Shakeel Mahmood

Authors

Muhammad Farhan Saeed Department of Geography, Government College University Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
Shakeel Mahmood Department of Geography, Government College University Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan

Keywords:

Electric Vehicles, Air Pollution, Emission Count, Average Daily Mileage, Particulate Matter

Abstract

Introduction/Importance of the Study: This study investigates the potential of electric bikes to replace fossil fuel-powered motorbikes as a solution to reduce air pollution in Lahore. Globally, the transport sector relies heavily on fossil fuels, which are a major contributor to air pollution. In Pakistan, 23% of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions come from road transport. Lahore alone has 4.2 million petrol-based motorbikes, significantly contributing to deteriorating air quality and posing serious health and environmental risks. Transitioning to electric vehicles, particularly in Punjab's major cities like Lahore, offers a promising approach to reduce harmful air pollutants. However, Pakistan faces various challenges that hinder the rapid adoption of electric vehicles.

Novelty Statement: This research highlights key policies needed for infrastructural and technological advancements to accelerate the adoption of electric bikes. The study is unique in that it focuses on controlling emissions in Lahore by replacing petrol motorbikes with electric bikes, using empirical data specific to the city. The analysis includes a detailed examination of daily and annual emissions from petrol-based motorbikes, focusing on pollutants like carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and sulfur and nitrogen oxides.

Materials and Methods: A questionnaire-based survey was conducted to determine the average daily mileage and annual working days of motorbikes in Lahore. Emission data for petrol and electric bikes was sourced from secondary sources, allowing a comparison between vehicles powered by renewable and non-renewable energy. Additionally, emissions from coal-based power plants generating electricity for electric bikes were also analyzed using secondary data.

Results and Discussion: The results indicate that electric bikes powered by renewable energy produce negligible emissions compared to petrol and diesel vehicles. However, when electricity is generated from non-renewable sources, such as coal-fired power plants, the emissions remain high and continue to contribute to air pollution.

Concluding Remarks: The study recommends that policymakers prioritize renewable energy sources for powering electric bikes. It also stresses the need for public-private partnerships, tax exemptions, and cost reductions to promote electric bike schemes for the general public.

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