Nagpur: In a concerted effort to address the escalating concerns of air pollution attributed to the rising number of conventional vehicles, the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) has taken a significant stride by establishing a dedicated Electric Vehicle (EV) cell named ‘Vidyutvahan.’ This initiative aligns with the objectives outlined in the Maharashtra State EV Policy, 2021, and aims to foster the adoption of eco-friendly electric vehicles in Nagpur.
The ‘Vidyutvahan’ EV cell comprises representatives from key stakeholders, including the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited, Nagpur Improvement Trust, Nagpur Smart and Sustainable City Development Corporation Limited, and Regional Transport Offices (RTOs). The formation of this collaborative unit was carried out in the presence of Municipal Commissioner Abhijeet Chaudhari.
A pivotal component of the EV cell’s agenda is the formulation of a comprehensive ‘City EV Readiness Plan.’ This strategic plan will serve as a blueprint to develop necessary infrastructure for electric vehicles across Nagpur. The plan aims to facilitate the seamless integration of electric vehicles into the city’s transportation network, with a focus on charging stations and other essential support services.
To kickstart the initiatives outlined in the City EV Readiness Plan, a ‘City EV Accelerator’ workshop was organized on Saturday. The workshop garnered participation from eminent individuals representing the government, private sector, and social sector. The collaborative efforts and insights from these diverse sectors are expected to contribute to the effective implementation of sustainable solutions for electric vehicle adoption.
The establishment of the ‘Vidyutvahan’ EV cell at Nagpur Municipal Corporation signifies a pivotal step towards mitigating air pollution and promoting the use of environmentally friendly electric vehicles. With the forthcoming City EV Readiness Plan and the enthusiastic response to the City EV Accelerator workshop, Nagpur is poised to become a model city for sustainable and eco-conscious transportation practices.
As developments unfold, the collaboration among stakeholders is expected to play a crucial role in achieving the targets set forth by the Maharashtra State EV Policy, 2021, ultimately transforming Nagpur into a greener and more sustainable urban centre.