Electric Vehicle (EV) with zero tailpipe emissions, envisage promising global strategy for decarbonization of transportation, as studies indicate that 70-80% of the air pollution load in Indian cities is on account of motor vehicles.
Subsequently, India has announced EV30@2030, aiming 30% fleet conversion to EVs by 2030 and at present, 26 states and 5 union territories have notified their EV Policy. As per statistics, the EV market in India is expected to grow at a CAGR of 49% from 2022-2030. Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) has examined implementation status of e-mobility programmes at state level, based on 15 criteria that encompass provisions in the state EV policies, tariff related provisions in state tariff orders, deployment of public EV charging infrastructure, e-mobility awareness activities, as well as promotion of e-mobility in public transportation segment.
Introducing EVs in hilly regions presents both opportunities and challenges. Their instant torque aids uphill acceleration, while regenerative braking helps recharge the battery on descents. Navigating the rugged terrain can enhance efficiency and sustainability in transportation. However, the limited driving range, non-availability of public charging stations and longer charging duration, causes range-anxiety.
This interplay of technology and terrain in hilly regions raises questions about EV adaptability. However, states like Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Sikkim have made significant progress, defying demographic challenges.
- Himachal Pradesh : Characterized by challenging mountainous terrain, the government of Himachal Pradesh is committed to making it a green energy state by 2026. The Himachal Pradesh EV policy, introduced in 2022, outlines target of 15% EV sales by 2025. It emphasizes the development of public charging infrastructure, financial incentives for EV purchases and use of renewable energy sources for charging the vehicles.
The transport department became the first in the country to switch its entire fleet of petrol and diesel official vehicles to EVs in 2023 and the government has banned the purchase of ICE vehicles in the public sector. Subsequently, the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) has successfully integrated electric buses into its fleet and operations.
The state plans to fully operate six green corridors. This strategic initiative aims to create a comprehensive network of roads and highways equipped with charging infrastructure, battery facilities and advanced technology, covering over 95% of major roads in the state. The four model cities (Shimla, Mandi, Baddi and Dharamshala) are required to create at least one low/zero-emission zone where only EVs, walking and cycling are permitted, prioritizing tourist spots, eco-sensitive areas and reserve forests.
In addition, the government is offering 50% subsidy to private operators for setting up charging stations and has provisions to provide 50% subsidy on the purchase of e-taxis and e-buses under the Rajiv Gandhi Self-Employment Startup Scheme.
- Uttarakhand : Prominently hilly with large areas under snow cover and steep slope, the government of Uttarakhand issued its EV policy back in 2018. The state aims to establish itself as a major EV hub and a preferred destination for investment in EV manufacturing capacity. By creating employment opportunities across both the demand and supply sides, the state seeks to foster a conducive environment for the transition to electric vehicles. Additionally, it will encourage the use of hybrid EVs, promoting sustainable mobility and supporting the growth of the EV ecosystem.
The state has successfully integrated electric buses into its public fleet under Dehradun Smart City Mission and has announced incentives for electric vehicles, offering subsidies through the Pollution Control Board to private consumers.
The government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Erisha E Mobility, to establish a 320 acres EV park and deploy 100 EV charging hubs across with the investment of Rs 1500 crore. It aims to provide a platform for EV manufacturing, ancillary units set up, technology providers and researchers to collaborate, fostering the growth of the electric vehicle ecosystem and to generate employment.
Additionally, the state has planned to develop country’s first electric pilgrimage corridor, being built in about 900 km long Chardham Yatra route with chargers to be installed in every 30 km for private electric vehicles (EVs).
- Sikkim: Almost entirely hilly, the northeastern state Sikkim’s elevation ranges from 280 metres to 8,586 metres with precipitous slopes. According to the State’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emission inventory, the transport sector accounts for 61% of the total GHG emissions and the government has recently unveiled its Electric Vehicle (EV) Policy in 2023. The policy aims to convert its government fleet to EVs, encourage eco-tourism through green mobility and to establish an environment conducive to the establishment of the electric vehicle ecosystem.
Streamlining efforts, the Transport department has initiated procurement of e-Taxis as a public fleet in the city of Gangtok, a pilot project with a budget outlay of 2 crores. With this move the government aims to foster awareness towards zero emission vehicles, negate the notion of incapabilities of EVs in hilly terrain as well as promote the development of EV ecosystem in the state. Interestingly, the government had also flagged off the first Electric vehicle in Sikkim back in 2021, which is being utilised as a pool vehicle by the Power department.
- Scope in Nagaland: Nagaland, with an elevation of up to 3,641 meters, has yet to implement an Electric Vehicle (EV) Policy. According to the World Air Quality Report 2023 by Swiss air monitoring body IQAir, PM2.5 levels in Kohima exceed safety limits by 5 to 7 times. Known for its vibrant festivals and high tourist footfall, Nagaland faces significant air quality challenges.
In August 2023, the Nagaland Transport Commission identified motor vehicle emissions as the primary source of air pollution in the state. Therefore, promoting EV adoption is crucial for reducing emissions and supporting eco-tourism.
As of July 14, 2023, the Press Information Bureau (PIB) reports just 60 registered EVs in Nagaland, making up only 0.01% of the total registered vehicles. However, with 28 public charging stations mapped across the state according to the BEE portal, there is promising potential for growth.
Effective government policies, incentives like tax reductions and subsidies and a robust public charging infrastructure are essential for advancing EV adoption and achieving sustainable mobility.
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Autor(en)/Author(s): Aishwarya Sharma, Rajib Deb, Sonia Shukla, Priyadarshini Alok
Quelle/Source: Nagaland Post, 20.08.2024
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