J&K Govt powers up for Electric Vehicle transition

Srinagar, May 31:  In a significant stride towards promoting sustainable and eco-friendly transportation, the Jammu and Kashmir government has started work on formulating a robust Electric Vehicle (EV) policy for J&K.

Recognising the growing trend of electric vehicles as a safe and environmentally conscious mode of transport, the administration has taken decisive steps to pave the way for the widespread adoption of electric mobility.

The Administrative Secretary of the Power Development Department (PDD) will head the committee tasked to draft the electric vehicle policy.

The committee boasts a diverse representation from various key departments, including Housing and Urban Development, Industries and Commerce, Food Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Transport, Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, Budget, and the Road Transport Corporation.

A senior official said: “One of the primary tasks is to evaluate and suggest measures to promote the electric mobility ecosystem in J&K, with a particular emphasis on the twin cities of Srinagar and Jammu, which are expected to be the early adopters of this transition. The committee is tasked with analysing the scope of incentives for the ownership of electric vehicles, including the potential for converting existing commercial fleets into electric setups. This move not only promotes environmental sustainability but also holds significant economic benefits for businesses and individuals alike.”

Recognising the importance of infrastructure, the committee will suggest the broad contours of the requirements for shifting to electric mobility, drawing insights from similar policies and rules implemented in neighbouring states.

“This approach ensures that J&K remains at the forefront of technological advancements while learning from the experiences of others,” officials said. “Safety remains a paramount concern, and the committee will analyse aspects related to road safety associated with the usage of electric vehicles. This proactive measure aims to ensure a seamless and secure transition to electric mobility, addressing potential challenges and mitigating risks."

Moreover, the committee will propose measures to promote research, innovation, and skill development in the field of electric vehicles.

This forward-thinking approach emphasises the importance of fostering a culture of technological advancement and nurturing a skilled workforce capable of supporting the electric mobility ecosystem.

Every year, on September 9, World Electrical Vehicle (EV) Day is observed to spread awareness about the need for electric mobility among the people and encourage the transition towards sustainable transportation.

Although the adoption of the electricity vehicles industry in India is still at a nascent stage, it is rapidly growing.

As per the data provided by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), Government of India (GoI), to the Parliament in 2013, only 53,387 electric vehicles were registered in the country.

However, as of August 2023, the number increased to 28,30,565.

The latest Economic Survey underlines that India’s automotive industry will play a critical role in the transition towards green energy.

It is estimated that the country’s EV market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 49 percent between 2022 and 2030 and that the annual sales of EVs in 2030 may cross 1 crore units, leading to the creation of 5 crore direct and indirect jobs by 2030.