Bihar to introduce Electric Vehicle Policy to boost economy

The transport department is planning to launch its own Electric Vehicle Policy (EVP), to improve the economy and decrease air pollution in Bihar. The policy is likely to be finalised in the next few months. Sanjay Kumar Agarwal, transport secretary, told the media that the primary goal of EVP is to encourage e-vehicles across Bihar and set up charging stations through public-private partnerships (PPP). Currently, Patna has 25 electric buses (e-buses) and more than 12,000 electric rickshaws (e-rickshaws). The urban development and housing department would acquire another 5-acre parcel of land at the Patliputra Bus Terminal for better amenities, along with charging stations. Likewise, a charging station would be set up at the proposed Patli bus terminus in the Mauja Kanhauli area of Bihta’s. At present, a charging station with 1,200 kilowatts capacity has been installed at the upcoming Transport Complex in Phulwarisharif. During the financial year (FY) 2022-2023, the transport department also plans to buy 25 additional e-buses. On March 2 2021, Chief Minister, Nitish Kumar, introduced the e-buses. Now, the number has increased to 25. The transport secretary informed that the 25 additional e-buses would be procured this year. He said at present, all the 25 operating buses start in Patna, along with 20 routes covering Bihta, Bailey Road, Danapur, Phulwarisharif, and the rest covering Rajgir, Muzaffarpur, and Darbhanga. Charging stations have been installed in these cities as well. Over the last few years, residents have also expressed appreciation for the transportation services changes. Sheela Kumari, Transport Minister, told the media that under the direction of the Chief Minister (CM), e-buses are being used to keep the environment clean. Pooja Anand Thakur told the media that who travelled from Gandhi Maidan in an e-bus, stated that the transportation system of Bihar has witnessed significant improvements. Image Source Also read: Patna municipal area to have 30 smart parking facilities soon