Karnataka stands at the forefront of India’s transition to electric mobility, and it is a proud moment to witness the state leading this green revolution. With a remarkable 5,765 public electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, Karnataka is setting the pace for sustainable transportation across the country by having the highest number of Public EVCS as per Bureau of Energy Efficiency’s EV Yatra Portal. This achievement, especially the 4,462 stations located in Bengaluru Urban alone, underscores the importance of urban centers in spearheading this change.
Karnataka’s leadership in the EV space is not coincidental, it is the result of years of strategic planning and policy initiatives. In 2017, Karnataka became the first Indian state to introduce an EV policy. This forward-thinking initiative recognized the critical role electric mobility would play in reducing carbon emissions and addressing climate change. Since then, the state has continuously enhanced its policy framework, most notably in 2021, when additional incentives were introduced to further accelerate the adoption of EVs. These incentives were designed to encourage all stakeholders, from manufacturers to end-users, to invest in this new clean form of transportation.
Bengaluru, Karnataka’s capital and tech hub, is at the heart of this transition. With over 85% of the state’s charging stations located in the city, Bengaluru has become synonymous with electric mobility in India. The concentration of charging stations here reflects the city’s high demand for sustainable transportation options and its status as a leader in adopting new technologies. The EV infrastructure in Bengaluru is a key driver of the city’s, and by extension, the state’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and building a green economy.
The city’s success can be attributed to its forward-thinking policies and willingness to embrace public-private partnerships. BESCOM has worked closely with private firms and government bodies to set up charging stations in strategic locations, ensuring that EV users have easy access to charging points across the city. Whether it’s a busy commercial area or a residential neighbourhood, Bengaluru’s charging network is designed to cater to the needs of all users, making electric vehicles a practical and convenient choice for the city’s residents.
While the development so far has been commendable, Karnataka’s journey is far from over. The state’s leadership under Honourable Chief Minister Shri. Siddaramaiah and Honourable Energy Minister Shri. KJ George along with the Karnataka government continued focus on sustainable transportation is evidenced by the new set of initiatives introduced in February 2024 to further boost the state’s EV infrastructure.
These initiatives include the Proposal for establishment of 2,500 additional charging stations across the state through a public-private partnership model, reflecting the government’s commitment to fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors. Additionally, the government has approved ₹35 crores to set up 100 new charging centres in the state. This funding will enable us to further expand our network and ensure that even the most remote areas of Karnataka have access to EV charging infrastructure. Our goal is to create a seamless, statewide network of charging stations that will encourage more people to switch to electric vehicles, reducing the state’s overall carbon emissions.
Karnataka’s commitment to electric mobility is part of a broader strategy to address the twin challenges of climate change and urban pollution. The transportation sector is one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, and transitioning to electric vehicles is a critical step in mitigating these emissions.
Karnataka’s success in this arena is a result of a concerted effort from all stakeholders. As we look ahead, our goal is to further accelerate the adoption of EVs and establish model EV cities, where sustainable transportation becomes the norm, not the exception. BESCOM remains fully committed to this vision, as we continue to work towards a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future for Karnataka and beyond. BESCOM’s efforts to enhance accessibility and infrastructure have been instrumental in driving electric vehicle uptake. The proactive initiatives and strategic planning have significantly supported the state’s transition to sustainable transportation.
Moreover, the state’s efforts are aligned with India’s national goals of reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2070. Karnataka’s leadership in this space will not only help the state meet its own sustainability targets but also contribute to India’s overall climate goals.
Through these initiatives, Karnataka is not just leading the EV charge in India, it is demonstrating how a combination of progressive policy, strategic investment, and public-private cooperation can create a future-ready infrastructure that benefits all citizens. Karnataka’s leadership in the electric vehicle sector is a testament to its strategic vision, robust policies, and unwavering commitment to sustainability. As the state continues to set new benchmarks, it serves as a model for other regions to follow in the journey towards a cleaner, greener future.
