Govt pushes for EV charging expansion, focus on fast-charging points

TNNNew Delhi: Delhi govt is getting its roadmap ready to expand the electric vehicle (EV) charging network from nearly 9,000 stations to about 32,000 over the next four years. .Chief minister Rekha Gupta Wednesday directed officials to focus on fast-charging infrastructure, adequate power supply and strategic locations.Chairing a high-level meeting on the new EV policy at the Delhi secretariat, Gupta reviewed the proposed expansion of the charging network. Transport minister Pankaj Kumar Singh and senior officials attended the meeting.According to govt, the discussions focused on developing a practical strategy for creating a modern, fast and widely accessible EV charging network across the city. The chief minister reviewed arrangements for power supply required for charging stations, the expected rise in future demand and the preparedness of the supporting electricity infrastructure.

She said expanding the charging network should not be limited to identifying suitable locations and stressed the need for uninterrupted power supply.

She also directed officials to promote solar-powered charging stations.Gupta said Delhi must have modern charging stations with basic amenities such as seating and drinking water, while ensuring that most stations can serve all types of EVs. She directed officials to prioritise fast-charging technology and convert existing slow-charging stations into fast-charging ones in a phased manner.

The chief minister also asked officials to prioritise charging stations at Delhi metro parking areas, municipal parking sites, vacant spaces beneath elevated metro corridors, areas around DDA markets, major malls, outside railway stations, govt premises and large commercial hubs.Govt said it will coordinate with DDA, Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) and original equipment manufacturers to utilise available land, parking spaces and other infrastructure.