Ludhiana: The push for a greener commute is accelerating in Chandigarh as city administrators identify 15 high-traffic locations for a new wave of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations.The proposal, drafted by the Chandigarh Renewable Energy Science and Technology (Crest) agency, aims to bolster the city’s infrastructure to keep pace with a surge in EV registrations, which have topped 3,000 annually for three consecutive years.Strategy: Targeting High-Movement HubsFollowing a comprehensive ground survey, Crest has recommended that the new stations be situated in commercial zones and high-density public areas where demand is peaking. The municipal corporation of Chandigarh (MC) is currently evaluating the feasibility of these sites, with a particular focus on revenue and parking logistics. Under the model, the MC provides the physical space, while a private company — selected via a competitive tender — covers all costs for installation, operation, and maintenance.The city earns a fixed rent from the space, while the private operator retains the remaining service fees. “The majority of these areas are paid parking locations, so the financial assessment and revenue angle are key before we give final consent,” a city official said.Expansion by the NumbersIf the MC approves the 15 proposed sites, Chandigarh’s charging network will grow from 36 to 51 locations, ensuring nearly every major commercial sector in the city offers charging facilities. The expansion is a direct response to a shift in consumer behavior. For the first time in 2025, the registration of four-wheeled light motor vehicles (LMVs) surpassed electric two-wheelers, with more than 1,500 electric cars hitting the road in a single year.The Economic ImpactThe existing 36 stations have already proven to be a viable revenue stream. In the past year, the network generated about ₹1 crore in total revenue. The MC received roughly ₹26 lakh simply for providing the land. The remaining ₹74 lakh supported the private firms that manage the round-the-clock infrastructure at no cost to the taxpayer.
