West Bengal is examining measures to expand electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure for app-based cab operators as the state reviews challenges facing the rapidly growing urban mobility sector, PTI reported.
Transport Minister Arjun Singh discussed the need for better charging facilities during a meeting with app cab operators in Kolkata on Tuesday. Officials were directed to take steps to address the concerns raised by operators, including the expansion of EV charging infrastructure.
Cab operators said inadequate charging facilities remain an important challenge as more commercial vehicles shift towards electric mobility. The issue was discussed alongside concerns over fares, CNG availability, compensation for vehicles requisitioned for law-and-order duties and mechanisms to address drivers’ grievances.
The meeting comes as app-based mobility services increasingly incorporate electric vehicles into their fleets. Improving the availability of charging points could help operators reduce concerns over charging access and support greater adoption of EVs in the commercial transport sector.
CNG availability was another major issue raised by operators. Singh directed officials to ensure adequate supplies and approach alternative suppliers if necessary.
The government is also examining the operators’ long-pending demand for a fare revision. Kolkata currently has around 21,000 active app-based cabs, according to the transport department.
The meeting also addressed the operation of private and non-commercial vehicles through aggregator platforms. Singh directed that their owners and operators be given seven days to voluntarily withdraw from offering such vehicles for hire through aggregator apps, after which strict enforcement would be initiated.
The focus on EV charging infrastructure is expected to be significant for Kolkata’s app-based cab sector, particularly as operators and the government seek to balance the transition towards cleaner vehicles with the practical requirements of commercial drivers.
