Date: October 03, 2023. — The Union Territory of Chandigarh is considering a significant step to restrict the registration of diesel-powered buses by mid-October. This decision is part of Chandigarh’s ambitious Electric Vehicle (EV) Policy. The policy aims to accelerate the adoption of clean and sustainable transportation options within the city.
Chandigarh’s EV Policy was unveiled earlier this year. It outlines a comprehensive roadmap to transition the city’s public and private transportation systems towards electric vehicles. The primary objective is to reduce air pollution, minimize carbon emissions, and pave the way for a greener and more sustainable future.
The updated Electric Vehicle (EV) Policy unveiled in July anticipates registering 142 to 154 fuel-based buses for this fiscal year. On April 1 of next year, new registrations for diesel-powered buses will start up again. Currently, the city runs over 3,500 diesel buses. This includes 500 Chandigarh Transport Undertaking (CTU) buses, 1,000 tourist and industry buses, and 2,000 school buses. In order to replace the entire CTU diesel bus fleet with electric buses on local and suburban routes by 2027–2028, the transport department wants to add 100 more electric buses to its current fleet of 80 this year.
The decision to stop the registration of new diesel buses by mid-October, expectes to serve as a crucial milestone. Moreover, this milestone is in Chandigarh’s electric mobility journey. It underscores the administration’s commitment to curbing the harmful effects of fossil fuel-powered vehicles and transitioning to cleaner alternatives.
Officials in Chandigarh are currently finalizing the implementation details of this registration suspension. While the exact timeline and scope of the ban are yet to be formally announced, it anticipate that it will apply to both public and private diesel buses operating within the Union Territory.
In addition to the registration stop, the EV Policy aims to implement various other measures to promote electric mobility. These measures include the development of charging infrastructure at strategic locations across Chandigarh and public awareness campaigns. Additionally, the policy aims to introduce incentives for EV buyers and operators.
The move aligns with the larger nationwide push for electric vehicles in India. Moreover, the country seeks to reduce its carbon footprint and dependence on fossil fuels. By transitioning towards electric transportation, Chandigarh aims to set an example for other cities across the nation. It also aims to contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable environment for its residents.
