Responding to the growing number of electric vehicles (EVs) on its streets, the local municipal corporation (MC) has unveiled an ambitious plan to establish 100 new EV charging stations across the city via a public-private partnership.
The move comes after a previous, solitary charging point installed inside the MC’s Zone D office in Sarabha Nagar was removed due to lack of use. The trend of electric vehicles, encompassing two-wheelers, e-rickshaws, and various four-wheelers, has surged in Ludhiana. However, city residents have faced persistent problems due to a limited charging infrastructure. The MC is addressing the infrastructure gap.
MC commissioner Aaditya Dachalwal has confirmed the proposal, stating the plan is ready to be presented for approval at the Finance and Contract Committee (F&CC) meeting. This will be a public-private model: The 100 stations will be installed through a partnership where the selected firm will cover all installation costs and operational expenses. The MC will not incur any costs.
Strategic Locations: The firm will conduct a survey to identify prime locations along main roads and high-traffic areas, including market parking sites. Probable locations include the Sarabha Nagar Market, BRS Nagar Market, Model Town Market, and the MC’s multi-story parking site near Mata Rani Chowk.
Residents have welcomed the initiative. Gulshan Kumar of Civil City noted that with skyrocketing fuel prices, e-vehicles are becoming a necessary option. “If there are EV stations and they need to charge their vehicles in case of need, even after paying the cost, it will still be a good option,” he said.
E-Bus Depot Construction Imminent
In a related development, construction on the MC’s much-awaited e-bus depots is also set to begin shortly. Senior authorities have approved the issuance of work orders to contractors. The existing bus depot on Hambran Road is due to be vacated for reconstruction, a process expected to take six months to complete.>
