Nitin Gadkari, Minister of Road Transport and Highways, inaugurated the country’s first commercial battery swapping and charging station for electric trucks at Delhi International Cargo Terminal Private Limited, located in Panchi Gujran village, Sonipat.
During the event, Gadkari urged transporters to shift from diesel and petrol to electric and biofuel alternatives, emphasising the cost-saving benefits of cleaner energy. “Whatever I say, I do it with full conviction,” he stated, reinforcing India’s commitment to a future powered by alternative fuels and moving away from diesel dependence.
Highlighting the growing role of alternative energy, Gadkari noted that India is swiftly advancing towards a diesel-free transport future. “I am a farmer, and now the farmer will not only be the ‘food provider’ but also the ‘energy provider’,” he said. He explained that fuel is now being produced from agricultural waste such as stubble, corn, sugarcane, and other biomass sources.
Gadkari pointed to successful initiatives where stubble has been used in road construction projects in Nagpur, Maharashtra, and Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh. He added that India is working towards producing biofuel from five million tonnes of stubble.
Sharing his personal commitment to cleaner fuel, the Minister revealed that he had arrived at the event in a bioethanol-powered vehicle, which not only reduces emissions but also supports farmers’ incomes.
Gadkari also spoke about the development of flex-fuel engines for agricultural equipment and the significant impact of electric vehicle (EV) technology in revolutionising the transport sector. He noted a 50-60% drop in battery prices over the past few years, making EVs increasingly accessible.
Addressing improvements in logistics, Gadkari said that the country has reduced its logistics costs by six percent compared to previous years. He added that improved road infrastructure is leading to further fuel savings, with transport rates now falling into single digits.
The inauguration event was also attended by Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel, HD Kumaraswamy, along with senior BJP leaders from the region.
