Patna: With more than 5.1 lakh electric vehicles already on its roads, Bihar has begun planning a large-scale expansion of charging infrastructure, proposing 129 charging stations across 23 districts in the first phase to support the state’s rapidly growing EV ecosystem.A site survey for the proposed stations began on Monday. A Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) team, in coordination with the ministry of heavy industries, will conduct surveys from Aug 17 to 20 at 72 identified locations in Patna, Gaya, Vaishali, Purnia, Nalanda and Chhapra.A review meeting on the initiative was held at the transport secretary’s office in Vishweshwaraiya Bhawan, Patna. It was attended by transport secretary Raj Kumar, ministry of heavy industries director Amarendra Kishore Singh, BHEL general manager J K Patnaik and other officials.During the survey, officials will assess land availability, site suitability, power connectivity, accessibility and other technical requirements. The findings will determine locations where charging stations can be installed.The project is being implemented under the PM E-DRIVE scheme, launched in Sept 2024 with an outlay of Rs 10,900 crore. Of this, Rs 2,000 crore has been earmarked for the development of public EV charging infrastructure.The state plans to roll out the network in phases, focusing on major highways and urban areas. The expanded infrastructure is expected to improve charging access for both long-distance travellers and city-based EV users.Raj Kumar said developing a robust charging network is a priority for promoting electric mobility in Bihar. He said the survey would help identify suitable sites, boost consumer confidence and accelerate EV adoption in the state.District and departmental officials have been directed to extend full support to the BHEL survey team to ensure completion of the exercise within the stipulated timeline. Amarendra Kishore Singh said the initiative would promote green transportation in Bihar while strengthening India’s broader EV ecosystem.As of July 2026, Bihar had over 5.1 lakh registered electric vehicles. These include 3.37 lakh e-rickshaws, 92,895 motorcycles and scooters, 61,983 passenger three-wheelers, 4,093 goods three-wheelers, 3,847 cars, 3,098 mopeds and 50 electric buses.
