Punjab’s transport minister, Laljit Singh Bhullar, announced that the state government is committed to supporting the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) and reducing pollution by providing incentives amounting to approximately Rs 300 crore over the next three years.
These incentives will be extended to encompass a range of electric vehicles, including electric two-wheelers, e-cycles, e-rickshaws, e-autos, and electric light commercial vehicles. Bhullar has directed the transport department to request the creation of a dedicated EV fund from the finance department to facilitate initiatives for EV adoption in the state.
During a meeting of the state-level EV committee, Bhullar reviewed the responsibilities assigned to different departments for implementing the Electric Vehicle Policy-2023 and urged officials to ensure its swift implementation.
Additionally, he instructed the Punjab State Power Corporation Ltd and Punjab Energy Development Agency officials to submit a report within a month regarding the establishment of electric vehicle charging stations and suitable locations.
The minister also instructed the Housing and Urban Department to formulate a policy for integrating EV charging facilities in upcoming malls and housing societies.
In conclusion, Bhullar urged the secretary of transport and the director of state transport to accelerate the replacement of government buses that are older than 15 years with electric buses by expediting the scrapping process.
