Bhopal: In a pioneering move, the Bhopal Municipal Corporation (BMC) will soon require all its officials to use only electric vehicles (EVs), banning petrol and diesel vehicles for administrative staff. This makes BMC the first municipal corporation in Madhya Pradesh to mandate e-vehicles for its workforce.
First Phase: 50 Electric Vehicles
In the initial phase, BMC will procure 50 electric vehicles. The corporation has already issued a tender and plans to sign a three-year contract with the selected vendor. This step aligns with the state government's Electric Vehicle Policy-2025, effective from March 2025, which aims to reduce dependence on petrol and diesel, lower carbon emissions, and promote environmental conservation.
State Directive and National Push
Under the new policy, the Urban Administration Department has directed all municipal corporations, municipalities, and councils across the state to adopt electric vehicles. The move gained momentum after Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent appeal to promote EVs for environmental protection. The state government subsequently accelerated e-vehicle adoption in the government sector, with reports emphasizing limiting the number of official vehicles and encouraging alternative transport.
Acting on directives from Urban Administration Commissioner Sanket Bhondve, the corporation will prioritize e-vehicles for officials at the ranks of additional commissioner, deputy commissioner, and assistant commissioner. The transport department's tender process is currently underway.
Expected Benefits
Officials anticipate that the switch will significantly reduce fuel costs and mark a major step toward curbing pollution in the city. The initiative is expected to set a precedent for other municipal bodies in the state.
