Residents in Madurai are calling for more charging stations and service centres as interest in electric vehicles (EVs) continues to grow in the city. EV owners and potential buyers say better public infrastructure is essential to encourage wider adoption and reduce concerns over limited driving range, Entrepreneur India reported.
Responding to the rising demand, the Madurai Corporation has set up a nine-member EV cell to promote electric mobility and implement the Tamil Nadu EV Policy 2023. The initiative is aimed at spreading awareness and building the support systems needed for a smooth shift to electric transport.
Many residents cite rising petrol prices and affordable electric two-wheelers as key reasons for considering the switch. However, “range anxiety” remains a concern. An electric two-wheeler owner said charging facilities are largely limited to homes, making longer trips difficult due to battery constraints.
The newly formed EV cell is headed by Corporation Commissioner Chitra Vijayan and includes officials from the Smart City Development Group, District Transport Office, Tamil Nadu Tourism Board, Electricity Board, Pollution Control Board, Traffic Police, the Department of Environment and Climate Change, and the Urban Development Department.
The panel aims to turn Madurai into an “EV City” by introducing supportive measures and incentives. Plans include setting up public charging stations with at least three charging points at each location and establishing battery-swapping stations for two- and three-wheelers to allow quick battery replacement.The corporation is also considering incentives for battery recycling companies, road tax exemptions, purchase subsidies for EV buyers, and special benefits for manufacturers making significant investments. Officials say these steps are intended to build a cleaner and more sustainable urban transport system for the city.
