Ludhiana Municipal Corporation Advances Green Mobility with Major EV Infrastructure Tender
The Municipal Corporation of Ludhiana (MCL) has taken a decisive step toward transforming the city into a sustainable transport hub by issuing a formal tender for the establishment of 50 electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. This ambitious initiative will be executed under a comprehensive 10-year public-private partnership (PPP) framework, marking a significant investment in the region's clean energy future.
Addressing the EV Surge with Strategic Infrastructure
Ludhiana is currently experiencing a remarkable rise in electric vehicle adoption, with EVs now constituting approximately 6% of all local vehicle registrations. Despite this growth, the existing charging infrastructure remains inadequate to meet the escalating demand. "Ludhiana functions as a high-traffic strategic industrial center," explained an MCL official. "Our current charging network is limited and cannot adequately support the increasing numbers of electric cars, two-wheelers, and commercial vehicles." The new project is specifically designed to bridge this critical gap, ensuring that the city's transport ecosystem evolves in tandem with technological advancements.
Exclusive Bidding for Public Sector Undertakings
In a move to guarantee operational reliability and adherence to stringent public sector standards, the tender is open exclusively to Central and state public-sector undertakings (PSUs). The selected PSU will bear full responsibility for the end-to-end execution of the network, encompassing:
- Technical deployment and installation of compatible AC and DC chargers
- Implementation of modular battery-swapping points
- Digital integration with RFID or QR code authentication systems
- Mobile app connectivity for seamless bookings and payments
- Comprehensive safety measures including fire safety provisions and CCTV surveillance
Each charging station will be equipped with weatherproof enclosures and certified waterlogging-proof drainage systems to ensure durability and safety. The civic body will facilitate the project by providing necessary land allocations and coordinating with power distribution companies to secure a stable energy supply.
Innovative Revenue Model and Digital Features
The project is structured around a self-sustaining "user-pays" revenue model, which is expected to generate consistent income for the municipal corporation. Under this arrangement, the MC will receive a minimum of one rupee for each kilowatt-hour (kWh) of energy dispensed at the stations. Additional revenue streams will include:
- Space premiums: If a bidder requires space exceeding three equivalent car spaces (ECS), a monthly levy of Rs 2,000 will apply for each extra ECS.
- Advertising rights: The concessionaire may sell advertising and branding space at the charging hubs, with the resulting revenue split equally between the firm and the MC.
This financial framework ensures that the infrastructure not only supports environmental goals but also contributes positively to the city's fiscal health.
Future-Proofing Ludhiana's Transport Ecosystem
Executive engineer Raman Kaushal has confirmed that the request for proposal (RFP) has been officially floated, signaling the commencement of this transformative project. "It will be a significant step forward for the city to have these stations operational," he stated. Beyond basic charging capabilities, the hubs are planned to incorporate advanced technological features such as IoT-enabled battery locker systems and solar-integrated roofs where feasible. These innovations will leverage central government incentives aimed at promoting EV adoption, further enhancing the project's sustainability and efficiency.
The rollout of these 50 EV charging stations represents a strategic shift toward clean mobility in Ludhiana, aligning with broader national and global efforts to reduce carbon emissions. By fostering a digital-first experience for drivers and securing a steady revenue stream, the Municipal Corporation is positioning the city as a leader in green urban transport solutions.
