In a major step towards sustainable urban transport, the Ludhiana Municipal Corporation (MC) plans to establish 100 electric vehicle (EV) charging stations across the city. With over 60,000 EVs already on the roads, the move aims at addressing the growing demand for accessible charging infrastructure.

Under the project, which is to be executed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, a private firm will be hired to install and operate the charging stations, while the MC will provide land for the installations. In return, the firm will share a fixed portion of its revenue with the civic body.

Before installation begins, the selected company will conduct a survey of major roads to identify suitable locations for the stations. A detailed list will be compiled to determine whether the land falls under the jurisdiction of the MC or whether it belongs to other departments. For locations outside city limits, land under Greater Ludhiana Area Development Authority (Glada) will be considered.

MC Commissioner Aaditya Dachalwal confirmed the development, stating, "We will soon float the Request for Proposal (RFP) to initiate the project. Having more EVs on the road will reduce pollution, making this a timely and necessary move."

The initiative comes at a time when rising fuel prices are pushing residents toward electric mobility. The popularity of electric two-wheelers and e-rickshaws is surging, and the city is also set to receive electric buses under the central government's PM E-Bus Sewa scheme. These developments further highlight the need for a robust charging network.

Currently, Ludhiana lacks sufficient mid-route charging options, which has been a concern for EV users. The proposed stations will not only support existing vehicles but also encourage more residents to make the switch to cleaner transport.

Once approved by the Finance and Contracts Committee, the RFP will be floated, and the groundwork for Ludhiana's green mobility future will begin.