Green Corridors Underway in Himachal to Strengthen Electric Vehicle Infrastructure
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Shimla,Aug 26 – The State Government has devised a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the implementation of the Rajiv Gandhi Swarojgar Yojna, set to be launched on October 2, 2023. The initiative aims to generate employment opportunities while also addressing vehicular pollution concerns. The SOP outlines that various government departments, local authorities, autonomous bodies, boards, corporations, government undertakings, or establishments can engage e-taxis for an initial four-year period, extendable by an additional two years.
Government highlighted that Himachal Pradesh is striving to become a model state for electric vehicles, fostering collaboration between the private and public sectors to reduce carbon emissions. The state is constructing six green corridors in the first phase to bolster electric vehicle infrastructure and subsequently lessen reliance on fossil fuels.
Interested parties wishing to purchase e-taxis and link them with government organizations must apply for permission via the transport department’s online portal, adhering to the provided proforma. The RTO office will scrutinize applications and rectify discrepancies within five days if necessary. Failing to submit required documents within the next five days will result in application rejection. Upon finalizing the list of eligible beneficiaries, the State Transport Authority will grant permission for e-taxi procurement.
Customer agencies will submit e-taxi demands to the transport department online. The scheme offers five categories for e-taxi hiring based on organization entitlements and needs, with vehicle loans accessible through banks or applicants themselves.
The government emphasized the state’s aim to become a Green Energy State by March 31, 2026, by promoting e-vehicles. The transition plan involves replacing all 1500 diesel buses with e-buses. The state budget includes a provision for a 50 percent subsidy for e-taxi, e-bus, and e-truck purchases, encouraging unemployed youth to invest in e-vehicles and establish sustainable livelihoods.
