New EV Policy: A Game Changer for Hyderabad

Lakshmi Kumari D M M

Hyderabad: Hyderabad is poised for a significant transformation with the introduction of the new Electric Vehicle (EV) policy by the Government of Telangana. This ambitious policy aims to revolutionize the city’s transportation landscape by promoting the adoption of electric vehicles, which are not only eco-friendly but also cost-effective.

Key Highlights of the EV Policy:

1. Registration Fee Waiver: The policy waives the registration fee for electric vehicles, providing substantial financial savings for vehicle owners and encouraging more residents to switch to EVs.
2. Environmental Impact: By reducing the number of fossil fuel-powered vehicles on the road, the policy aims to significantly lower emissions, thereby improving air quality and reducing the city’s carbon footprint.
3. Economic Benefits: The adoption of EVs is expected to create new job opportunities in the manufacturing, maintenance, and charging infrastructure sectors. This, in turn, will contribute to the local economy.
4. Public Awareness Campaigns: The government is launching awareness programs to educate the public about the benefits of electric vehicles and the importance of adopting sustainable practices.
5. Enhanced Charging Infrastructure: To support the growth of EVs, the policy includes plans to establish a robust network of charging stations across the city, ensuring convenience for EV owners.
6. Government Support: The policy is part of a broader initiative led by Chief Minister Revanth Reddy and Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka to transform Hyderabad into a pollution-free city. The government is making concerted efforts to bring about changes in the transportation sector and promote environmental sustainability.

Over 1.65 Cr motor vehicles on city roads

This new EV policy is set to be a game changer for Hyderabad, paving the way for a cleaner, greener future and setting an example for other cities to follow. Hyderabad has a total of 1.65 crore registered vehicles. This includes 1.21 crore two-wheelers and 22.19 lakh four-wheelers. The vehicular pollution load in Hyderabad and Secunderabad is estimated to be around 1500 tonnes per day (T/day). The major pollutants from vehicles include:

·         Carbon Monoxide (CO): 61.4%

·         Hydrocarbons (HC): 34%

·         Nitrogen Oxides (NOx): 3.85%

·         Sulfur Dioxide (SO2): 0.54%

·         Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM): 0.18%

·         Lead: 0.023%

Two-wheelers contribute to 56.2% of the pollution load, while three-wheelers contribute 34%. Four-wheelers (both petrol and diesel) and trucks also add significantly to the pollution levels3.

It’s clear that vehicular pollution is a major concern in Hyderabad. The new EV policy and other initiatives by the government aim to address this issue by promoting cleaner and greener transportation options.

Electric vehicles (EVs) have been gradually increasing in numbers on the roads of Hyderabad, thanks to initiatives like the new EV policy introduced by the Telangana government. With registration fee waivers and other incentives, more residents are expected to opt for EVs to contribute to a cleaner and greener environment. The adoption of EVs is seen as a crucial step towards reducing pollution and promoting sustainability in the city.  But by all means this is not enough.

There is a need to focus on Public Transportation, promotion of green spaces, stringent regulations for industry, and a more effective waste management system.