Ladakh Gears Up for Electric Vehicle revolution; Advisor Kotwal Sets Infrastructural targets

Leh, May 31: As part of Ladakh’s ongoing efforts to become a carbon-neutral state, the UT Administration has significantly emphasized promoting electric vehicles in both the government and private sectors since the launch of the Ladakh Electric Vehicle and Allied Infrastructure Policy, 2022.

In this regard, Advisor Ladakh Dr. Pawan Kotwal chaired a meeting with the Power Development Department (PDD) and the Transport Department to discuss the establishment of electric vehicle charging stations and the enhancement of EV promotion. He highlighted the existing subsidies provided by the administration and the facilitation of bank loans and schemes, all aimed at encouraging sustainable transportation practices in Ladakh.

Advisor Kotwal stated that the success of this project relies heavily on the available infrastructure. He urged the concerned departments to carefully plan the locations for EV charging stations along designated routes according to existing guidelines to ensure the convenience of EV users.

During the meeting, it was discussed that priority should be given to setting up charging stations at existing fuel pumps after securing approval from the respective oil companies. Further, he directed the Deputy Commissioners of Leh and Kargil to facilitate the allocation of land for such stations wherever necessary.

He also urged the PDD to ensure a three-phase power supply at all these stations, adding that the successful implementation of this project would be a significant achievement for Ladakh and urged the officials to achieve the set goals in the given timeline.

Commissioner Secretary, Planning Development and Monitoring Department, Administrative Secretary PDD, Admin Secretary Transport Department, Deputy Commissioner Leh/Kargil, Director Finance, Chief Engineer, PDD, Superintending Engineer PDD, Deputy Director, District Motor Garages Leh/Kargil and other officials attended the meeting held at Civil Secretariat, Leh.