Karnataka Expands EV Charging Network on State Highways
Electric vehicle (EV) users traveling on state highways in Karnataka are set to benefit from a major infrastructure expansion, with charging stations planned approximately every 60-70 kilometers. The Bangalore Electricity Supply Company (Bescom), in collaboration with the Karnataka Road Development Corporation Limited (KRDCL), is spearheading this initiative to enhance electric mobility across the state.
Strategic Partnership to Boost EV Infrastructure
This push comes amid global concerns over fuel supply fluctuations linked to ongoing conflicts in West Asia, highlighting the urgency for sustainable transportation alternatives. Karnataka, already leading India in EV charging station density, aims to further solidify its position with this new plan. The project will leverage KRDCL's extensive 3,000-kilometer road network to ensure comprehensive coverage.
Sources within Bescom revealed that KRDCL granted permission a month ago to install EV charging points at strategic locations, including toll plazas, bus bays, truck laybys, and its central Bengaluru office. A senior Bescom engineer explained, "KRDCL has designed its facilities so that you'll encounter either a toll plaza or a bus-truck bay every 60-70 km on highways. These points will be equipped with EV charging facilities within a few months."
Operational Details and Future Plans
Bescom Managing Director N Shivashankara emphasized the logistical considerations, stating, "We must establish and maintain these EV charging facilities without disrupting traffic flow on state highways. While we have yet to sign the official Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with KRDCL, it will include a land revenue sharing agreement of Rs 1 per kWh of electricity consumed over a 10-year period." He added that upon completion, the network will "provide seamless charging access to EV users," addressing a critical barrier to EV adoption.
Joint inspections by Bescom and KRDCL engineers have identified most proposed sites as viable. Another senior Bescom engineer noted, "Out of 42 inspected toll plazas, 30 were deemed feasible for EV charging facilities. These will offer fast-charging options and accommodate at least six vehicles simultaneously."
Government Support and Broader Impact
Additional Chief Secretary (Energy) Gaurav Gupta praised the collaboration, stating, "Such partnerships are crucial for building a robust, accessible, and reliable EV charging ecosystem. This will propel Karnataka toward adopting clean and sustainable transportation solutions."
Energy Minister K J George highlighted how the initiative addresses consumer concerns, remarking, "Potential EV buyers have been hesitant about long-distance travel due to charging anxiety. We are actively working to alleviate these fears by developing a dependable network of EV charging facilities." He also mentioned that under the PM E-drive scheme, 20 EV charging facilities are planned at 10 toll plazas on the Bengaluru-Belagavi National Highway, further integrating state and national efforts.
This expansion not only supports Karnataka's environmental goals but also positions the state as a leader in India's transition to electric mobility, ensuring that EV users can travel confidently across its highways.
