Surat targets 50% electric vehicles share on roads by 2030
Replacing the earlier Electric Vehicle (EV) Policy 2021, the new framework focuses on the adoption of different alternate fuels like hydrogen-powered vehicles, biofuel-based vehicles, along with EVs. The policy will be implemented for a period of five years.
To support the growing number of EV vehicles, over 460 charging stations will be established across the city, ensuring that there is at least one station per sq km, incentivising e-vehicle purchase through subsidies and creating necessary infrastructure.
Direct incentives in the form of subsidies will be provided to commercial electric three-wheelers, light commercial vehicles (LCVs), and pink e-autos for women entrepreneurs. Subsidies will vary by vehicle type and segment, making adoption economically viable. Incentives also include exemption from vehicle tax.
SMC will create a green vehicle cell, which will coordinate the implementation of the policy through a structured governance framework, including a technical committee and monitoring teams.
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A dedicated Green Vehicle Fund will also be formed, pooling resources from municipal funding, green bonds, CSR contributions, carbon financing, and govt grants. The cell will include officials from SMC, the Regional Transport Office (RTO), electricity distribution companies, traffic police, the members of The Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and experts.
"The GVP25 aligns with India's net-zero carbon goals and serves as a roadmap to make Surat a climate-resilient and environmentally-friendly urban centre.
Through a combination of technological adoption, public-private collaboration, and citizen engagement, we aim to lead the green mobility revolution in the state," said Rajan Patel, chairman, Standing Committee.
Additionally, the policy envisions the creation of green zones and mobility corridors to improve air quality and promote non-polluting transportation options. The development of GV manufacturing and assembling units locally will be promoted.
The policy has a scope of projects for battery recycling. Future expansion plans include hydrogen and biofuel technologies through a structured roadmap focused on technology adaptation, infrastructure growth, and demand creation.
To enable a seamless experience for EV users, a network of 460 public charging stations will be deployed using the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. Digital platforms, including a One EV App and a web portal, will streamline services and bring transparency to stakeholders.
The city will also host a GV Expo on Sept 8, showcasing innovations in GV technology and charging infrastructure. Special focus will be placed on training for safety protocols and emergency response SOPs.
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