After installation of an electric vehicle (EV) charging station in the parking area at municipal corporation’s zone-D office in Sarabha Nagar on pilot basis, Tata company has sought permission from the civic body to install the charging facility at more sites. However, MC officials said they would first see the response to the one installed at the zone-D office before replicating the same at other places.
 

On May 22, Tata projects installed an EV charging station on a month-long trial basis. According to company representatives, EV charging stations can be installed at spots like parking lots and petrol pumps.
 

Meanwhile, a Tata Projects official claimed that the equipment was compact and could be installed anywhere in the city. He added that the charging station is only for cars. He also observed that the demand for electric vehicles was increasing as they did not cause pollution.
 

MC commissioner Shena Aggarwal said, “First, we want to see the results of this EV station, that is why we are conducting a month-long trial run. After that, we’ll deliberate upon future projects.”
 

Residents were disappointed with the location of the project.
 

Rajguru Nagar resident C L Kapoor said, “Not many people go to MC zone-D with electric vehicles. Also, it is only meant for cars. Currently, more people use electric scooters, so the facility should also cater to two-wheelers.” He added that authorities should conduct the trial at some other public place with more footfall as few knew about it.
 

Accessibility is a major concern for electric vehicle users. Chander Nagar resident Kartik Sharma said, “I am not aware of any such charging station, but I plan to get an e-car this year. Charging stations should be located in petrol pumps or other public places so people can easily access them.”
As per the draft policy for encouraging electric vehicles in Punjab, the MCs will act as nodal agencies to develop infrastructure and locate sites for charging stations.