Is Chennai corporation setting up EV charging stations at 15 locations across the city?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- 15 EV charging stations to be set up across Chennai.
- Located in high-traffic areas for better accessibility.
- Response to growing EV adoption among residents.
- Charging services will not be free.
- Supports Tamil Nadu’s green energy goals.
Chennai, May 29 (NationPress) As the demand for Electric Vehicles (EVs) continues to grow in Chennai, the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has initiated a new project aimed at enhancing the EV charging infrastructure throughout the city.
Understanding the necessity for accessible public charging stations, the civic authority plans to set up charging points at 15 strategic locations across all 15 zones of the Corporation.
The Tamil Nadu Green Energy Corporation Limited previously sought to identify suitable government-owned sites in bustling areas for this initiative.
In response, the GCC has designated beaches, parks, playgrounds, gardens, lakesides, and other vacant government lands within its reach for the establishment of EV charging stations.
Notable sites selected for this project include the Chennai Egmore National Art Gallery, Magaral Park in the Ambattur zone, and Chetpet Eco Park and Bougainvilla Park in the Anna Nagar zone.
In the Teynampet zone, charging points will be located at Semmozhi Park, Nageswara Rao Park, and the Marina Beach parking area.
Meanwhile, in the Adyar zone, charging stations will be set up at the Shri Ashtalakshmi Temple parking lot, Thiruvanmiyur Beach parking, and Besant Nagar parking.
Two additional sites have been earmarked in the Kodambakkam zone — Somasudharam Ground and the Chennai Corporation playground.
This initiative comes in light of a significant increase in EV usage, particularly among lower-middle-class and middle-class families, many of whom are opting for e-bikes.
During a recent meeting of the Chennai Corporation Council, several councillors voiced their support for making public EV charging services complimentary, citing the financial advantages it would offer to working-class commuters.
However, Chennai Mayor R. Priya clarified that while the plan to set up charging points is progressing, the Corporation does not intend to provide free charging services.
“Fifteen locations have been decided, and work to install the infrastructure will commence shortly. However, charging will not be complimentary,” she stated, addressing the suggestions made during the council meetings.
The forthcoming EV charging network is expected to significantly enhance convenience for electric vehicle users in the city, while also supporting Tamil Nadu’s broader push towards sustainable urban transport solutions.
aal/rad