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The proposed New Energy Vehicle (NEV) policy has caused unrest among the Pakistani auto industry, with stakeholders pointing out that a fundamental flaw in its framework could potentially weaken both environmental objectives and industrial growth. The controversy centers on placing Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs), which combine combustion engines with electric propulsion systems, alongside Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) – vehicles powered solely by batteries without any internal combustion engine. The auto industry fears this could blur the lines between different types of green technologies and create confusion in consumer markets.
In a related development, Pakistan’s parliamentarians are discussing plans to reopen an old religious site near Kartarpur Sahib – now known as Shravanjit Singh Temple. This temple holds significance for Sikhs due to its proximity to the revered Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Dharamsala, India.
Amidst this debate on transport policy and religious sites, some fear that reopening Kartarpur could disrupt peace as it might reignite memories of past conflicts. In contrast, others see potential for a revitalized pilgrimage site to attract more visitors from the Sikh community in Pakistan.