Chandigarh Accelerates Green Mobility with Major EV Charging Expansion
In a significant push toward sustainable urban transportation, Chandigarh is set to enhance its electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure by identifying 15 high-traffic locations for new charging stations. This initiative, spearheaded by the Chandigarh Renewable Energy Science and Technology (Crest) agency, aims to address the rapid increase in EV adoption across the city.
Strategic Focus on High-Demand Zones
Following an extensive ground survey, Crest has recommended that the new charging stations be strategically placed in commercial zones and densely populated public areas where demand is at its peak. The Municipal Corporation of Chandigarh (MC) is currently assessing the feasibility of these sites, with a strong emphasis on revenue generation and parking management.
Under the proposed public-private partnership model, the MC will provide the physical space for the stations, while a private operator, selected through a competitive bidding process, will handle all installation, operation, and maintenance costs. The city will earn a fixed rental income from the land, and the private company will retain service fees from users.
A city official highlighted the financial considerations, stating, "Most of these areas are paid parking locations, so evaluating the revenue potential is crucial before we grant final approval."
Quantifying the Expansion
If approved, the 15 new sites will expand Chandigarh's charging network from 36 to 51 locations, ensuring that nearly every major commercial sector in the city is equipped with EV charging facilities. This expansion directly responds to shifting consumer trends, as EV registrations have exceeded 3,000 annually for three consecutive years.
Notably, 2025 marked a milestone with four-wheeled light motor vehicles (LMVs) surpassing electric two-wheelers in registrations for the first time, with over 1,500 electric cars added to the roads in a single year.
Proven Economic Benefits
The existing network of 36 charging stations has already demonstrated its economic viability. In the past year, it generated approximately ₹1 crore in total revenue. Of this, the MC received about ₹26 lakh as rental income for providing the land, while the remaining ₹74 lakh supported private operators managing the infrastructure around the clock, all without any cost to taxpayers.
This model not only promotes green commuting but also creates a sustainable revenue stream for the city, encouraging further investments in renewable energy projects.
Future Implications
The proposed expansion aligns with broader national goals to reduce carbon emissions and foster eco-friendly transportation. By bolstering its EV infrastructure, Chandigarh sets a precedent for other Indian cities to follow, potentially accelerating the nationwide transition to electric mobility.
As the MC finalizes its evaluation, stakeholders remain optimistic that this initiative will significantly enhance the city's appeal to environmentally conscious residents and businesses, further solidifying Chandigarh's reputation as a leader in urban sustainability.
