The Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) is taking a decisive stride towards an eco-friendly and sustainable urban future with the planned establishment of 15 new electric vehicle (EV) charging stations across the city.
This proactive initiative is a direct response to the burgeoning demand for e-vehicles, signaling Kolkata’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and fostering a gender-neutral, equitable transportation landscape that benefits all residents. The rollout signifies a pivotal moment in the city’s transition towards zero-net carbon mobility. One of these pioneering charging stations has already been strategically positioned within the parking premises of the KMC head office building on S N Banerjee Road, already operational under the management of an e-vehicle-based app agency. This same agency has secured the tender to develop the remaining 14 charging points, ensuring a cohesive and professionally managed network. The strategic decision to locate these stations primarily in KMC-owned parking lots along key thoroughfares maximises accessibility for the public, encouraging a broader adoption of electric vehicles.
Following the initial installation, plans are already in motion for a charging station beneath the bustling Gariahat Bridge, a move that will significantly enhance convenience for EV users in the southern parts of the city. Subsequent locations earmarked for development include major arteries and residential areas such as AJC Bose Road, Garden Reach, Rafi Ahmed Kidwai Road, Raja Dinendra Street, Raja Rammohan Sarani, Bethune Row East, Khudiram Bose Sarani, Sundarimohan Avenue, Surendraranjan Roy Road, Rabindra Sarobar, Sukesh Sarkar Road, Abdul Rasul Avenue, and Karbala Trunk Road. This widespread deployment aims to eliminate range anxiety for EV owners, a common barrier to adoption. The lighting department of the KMC will oversee the technical installation and setup of these new charging stations, ensuring adherence to safety and operational standards. Once commissioned, these facilities will transition to the KMC’s parking department for ongoing management and maintenance. A fast-speed charger, capable of simultaneously charging two vehicles – including cars, bikes, and auto-rickshaws – is currently being set up opposite the former Elite cinema hall, promising rapid charging capabilities that will further streamline the user experience.
While the exact charging fees are yet to be determined, trial runs will be conducted upon the completion of each station. These trials will be crucial for assessing electricity consumption and establishing a fair and competitive pricing structure, ensuring that the cost of charging remains attractive to existing and prospective EV owners. This meticulous approach underscores KMC’s commitment to not only establishing the infrastructure but also making it economically viable for the public. This ambitious rollout of EV charging infrastructure is a clear demonstration of Kolkata’s progressive stance on urban development. By actively promoting the transition to electric vehicles, the KMC is not only addressing the immediate challenges of air pollution and reliance on fossil fuels but is also investing in a healthier, quieter, and more sustainable urban environment for future generations. This network will underpin the growth of electric mobility, making green transport an accessible and practical reality for a broader segment of the population, thereby contributing significantly to Kolkata’s aspiration of becoming a leading example of an eco-friendly and equitable smart city.
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