Leh, April 6: Chief Secretary of the Union Territory of Ladakh, Ashish Kundra, on Monday reviewed the progress of the Ladakh Electric Vehicle and Allied Infrastructure Policy, 2022, with a strong focus on expanding electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure under the PM E-Drive initiative.
Chairing a high-level meeting, Kundra assessed the implementation status of Electric Vehicle Public Charging Stations (EV-PCS) across the region. Officials presented detailed updates on policy targets, incentives, exemptions from road taxes, and provisions for end-user subsidies aimed at promoting EV adoption among private buyers and transport operators.
The Chief Secretary directed departments to conduct a comprehensive assessment of existing EV charging stations, including categorisation of electricity connections under domestic and commercial consumer IDs. He also reviewed installation progress at fuel stations and stressed strict compliance by oil marketing companies in setting up EV charging infrastructure.
Highlighting the need for sustainable mobility, Kundra emphasized electrification of public and commercial transport, particularly cars, cabs, and buses. He called for studying successful EV models from other states and adapting them to Ladakh’s unique conditions.
He also directed officials to engage with local taxi unions to build awareness around the long-term benefits of EV adoption and policy incentives.
Special emphasis was laid on the Early Bird Incentive (EBI) programme to encourage early adoption of EVs in the Union Territory. Kundra also underscored the potential of solar-powered charging stations, leveraging Ladakh’s geographical advantages.
The meeting discussed the inclusion of school and airport buses under the EV policy framework, with directions to undertake proper planning and feasibility assessments for electric bus deployment.
“A practical and region-specific approach is essential for effective implementation, given Ladakh’s terrain and climatic challenges,” Kundra noted.
The meeting was attended by senior officials, including Transport Secretary Rahul Sharma, Additional Secretary Dr. Mohammad Usman Khan, GM SIDCO Sonam Norboo, Joint Director Finance Jigmet Namgyal, and ACR Delex Namgyal, among others.
