Ludhiana: Responding to the sharp rise in electric vehicles on city roads, the Ludhiana Municipal Corporation has announced a plan to set up 100 new EV charging stations through a public-private partnership. The initiative aims to resolve long-standing concerns about the lack of charging facilities, which has been a major hurdle for EV users in the city, reports The Times of India.
The move follows the removal of the MC’s only earlier charging point at the Zone D office in Sarabha Nagar due to poor usage. With more residents adopting e-two-wheelers, e-rickshaws, and electric cars, the civic body is now working to close the infrastructure gap.
MC commissioner Aaditya Dachalwal confirmed that the proposal is ready and will be placed before the Finance and Contract Committee (F&CC) for approval. Under the plan, a private firm will be selected to install and operate the 100 charging stations. The company will bear all installation and maintenance costs, ensuring that the MC does not face any financial burden.
The selected firm will also conduct a survey to identify suitable locations along key roads and busy public areas. Likely spots include Sarabha Nagar Market, BRS Nagar Market, Model Town Market, and the multi-storey parking facility near Mata Rani Chowk.
Residents have welcomed the move. Gulshan Kumar of Civil City said rising fuel prices are pushing many towards electric vehicles.
“If charging stations are available and people can power their vehicles whenever required, it will be a helpful option even if they have to pay for it,” he said.
Meanwhile, work on the MC’s long-pending e-bus depots is finally set to begin. Senior officials have cleared the issuance of work orders to contractors. The existing bus depot on Hambran Road will soon be vacated for reconstruction, which is expected to take six months.
