Himachal Supercharges Its EV Future with 80 New Charging Stations
In a big leap toward a greener tomorrow, the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) is set to roll out 80 electric vehicle (EV) charging stations across the state—an ambitious upgrade from its earlier plan of 53. The revised blueprint has already been sent to the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) for approval, and once the green light comes through, construction will kick off in both bustling towns and remote villages.
This expansion is more than just a numbers game. It’s a bold step in Himachal Pradesh’s mission to cut down on fossil fuel use and embrace cleaner, more sustainable transport. With electric vehicles steadily gaining traction in cities like Shimla, Mandi, Dharamshala, and Solan, the need for a robust charging network has never been more urgent.
Funding the Future
NABARD has pledged a ₹128-crore loan to power the project—covering a whopping 90% of the cost. The state government will pitch in the remaining 10%. The first instalment of ₹35 crore has already been released, setting the wheels in motion for early groundwork.
Driving Toward Sustainability
This initiative is part of a broader state strategy to promote eco-friendly mobility. Alongside the charging stations, the government is also investing in electric buses under various schemes, aiming to make public transport cleaner and more efficient.
Delays and Determination
While the project has been in the pipeline for over a year, revisions to the Detailed Project Report (DPR) caused some delays. But with the updated plan now in place, HRTC is determined to ensure that the charging infrastructure keeps pace with the growing EV population.
Why It Matters
For EV owners—both private and public—the lack of charging stations has been a persistent roadblock. This new network promises to change that, making electric travel more practical and accessible across Himachal’s challenging terrain. Beyond convenience, it’s a crucial move toward reducing emissions and preserving the state’s pristine environment.
As Himachal Pradesh gears up for an electric revolution, these 80 charging stations could be the spark that lights the way.
