Patna: The Bihar government has initiated plans to expand electric vehicle infrastructure across the state, with officials holding discussions on establishing EV charging stations along major highways and public transit routes.
A high-level meeting chaired by Transport Secretary, Raj Kumar was held on Friday with representatives from automobile manufacturers, petroleum companies and EV infrastructure firms to discuss the development of a statewide charging network.
The meeting focused on setting up charging stations at roadside eateries, hotels, motels, petrol pumps and other suitable locations along national and state highways.
Focus On Electric Mobility Infrastructure
Officials discussed technical standards, operational mechanisms and the facilities required to support large-scale EV adoption in the state.
The Transport Secretary said the government viewed the development of a robust charging network as essential for promoting electric mobility and ensuring seamless charging access for the public.
He also said the Central government was expected to provide nearly 400 electric buses to Bihar in the near future.
According to officials, preparations for charging infrastructure are being prioritised ahead of the rollout of the buses, which are expected to support cleaner and more efficient public transport systems.
Unified Platform Planned For Charging Stations
Representatives from vehicle manufacturing companies told officials that many firms currently operate separate mobile applications for locating charging stations.
In response, the Transport Department announced plans to develop an integrated digital platform that would provide information on all EV charging stations through a single interface.
Officials said charging locations would also be integrated with mapping platforms such as Google Maps to improve accessibility and encourage wider EV adoption.
Companies Asked To Submit Charging Plans
The department directed companies to submit detailed lists of existing and proposed EV charging stations across Bihar, including precise Google location coordinates.
Officials said this would help authorities assess infrastructure gaps and coordinate the planned expansion of the charging network at the state level.
The Transport Department is expected to collaborate with vehicle manufacturers and oil companies for implementation of the project.
After receiving formal consent from participating companies, the government plans to sign memorandums of understanding before moving ahead with execution.
The meeting was attended by Arif Ahsan, Indu Kumari and representatives from automobile, petroleum and charging infrastructure companies.
