Bengaluru: The Karnataka government has received approval from the Centre to install 1,243 high-capacity EV charging stations under the PM E-Drive scheme, aimed at boosting clean mobility and electric vehicle adoption in the state. This initiative will strengthen Karnataka’s charging infrastructure to support the increasing number of EVs on the road
Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy announced that the proposal submitted by Karnataka has been cleared with a financial approval of nearly Rs 123.26 crore. The project forms part of the Centre’s broader strategy to accelerate India’s transition to sustainable and environment-friendly transportation systems.
Officials said the charging stations will be installed in strategic locations including urban centres, highways, toll plazas, transport hubs, and commercial corridors to ensure easier access for EV users. The state government is aiming to reduce “range anxiety” among electric vehicle owners while improving long-distance EV travel connectivity across Karnataka.
The new charging infrastructure is expected to complement Karnataka’s ambitious clean mobility goals under its EV and Clean Mobility Policy 2025-30, which focuses on increasing EV penetration, attracting green investments, and building a robust charging ecosystem. Karnataka has already emerged as one of India’s leading electric mobility hubs, particularly with Bengaluru witnessing rapid adoption of electric cars, scooters, and commercial EV fleets.
According to officials, the proposed stations will include fast and high-capacity chargers capable of serving multiple vehicle categories, including electric cars, buses, and commercial transport vehicles. The infrastructure expansion is also expected to create opportunities for startups and private firms operating in the EV technology and charging segments.
The Centre further stated that proposals worth more than Rs 503 crore have been approved nationwide under the PM E-Drive programme, enabling the installation of nearly 4,874 EV chargers through various state governments and public sector oil companies such as IOCL, BPCL, and HPCL. Karnataka accounts for a substantial share of the newly approved infrastructure.
The Karnataka government will install EV (electric vehicle) charging stations every 60-70 km on state highways. This will make traveling between cities with electric cars easier and safer. This plan will accelerate EV adoption and help reduce pollution.
