BESCOM to Electrify Bengaluru-Belagavi Highway: New EV Charging Stations Announced
In a major move to eliminate “range anxiety” for long-distance electric vehicle (EV) travelers, the Bangalore Electricity Supply Company Limited (BESCOM) has announced a comprehensive plan to install electric vehicle charging stations along key routes. The initiative primarily targets the Bengaluru-Belagavi National Highway (NH-48) and will cover approximately 40 other toll points across the state.
This development is spearheaded by the Energy Department of Karnataka and aims to transform the state’s highway network into a seamless electric corridor, connecting industrial hubs, tourist destinations, and border trade points.
Boosting Inter-City EV Travel
The primary goal of this project is to make EV travel practical beyond city limits. BESCOM officials have confirmed that the new infrastructure will plug crucial connectivity gaps between major economic zones.
- Targeted Locations: The rollout includes installations at strategic toll plazas and junctions along the Bengaluru-Belagavi stretch (NH-48).
- Broader Network: The plan involves setting up 30 EV charging stations on state highways and 20 stations on national highways, pending final approvals from the Karnataka Road Development Corporation and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) respectively.
- Tourist Circuits: Under the PM-E Drive initiative, chargers are also being installed at popular tourist locations, including Mayura Hotels (KSTDC), Jungle Lodges & Resorts, and prominent temples.
Managing Director N. Shivashankar emphasized that this initiative is not just about convenience but about “accelerating the state’s transition to clean energy” and building a green transport ecosystem for the future.
Karnataka Leads in EV Infrastructure
Karnataka continues to hold the top spot in India for public charging infrastructure.
- Current Status: The state currently boasts 5,960 operational public EV charging stations, the highest in the country.
- EV Penetration: Driven by these efforts, Karnataka has achieved an EV penetration rate of over 11%, significantly higher than the national average of 9%.
- Affordability: BESCOM maintains some of the lowest public EV charging tariffs in India to encourage the shift away from fossil fuels.
Tech-Driven Convenience: The ‘EV Mithra’ App
To support this growing physical infrastructure, BESCOM has also strengthened its digital backbone. The ‘EV Mithra’ app serves as a one-stop solution for EV users.
- Features: The app allows users to locate chargers statewide, check real-time availability, and book charging slots.
- Solar Integration: BESCOM has also launched India’s first solar-powered EV hub near Kempegowda International Airport. This facility features second-life batteries and can charge vehicles using renewable energy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Which highway is the primary focus for BESCOM’s new EV chargers? BESCOM is focusing on the Bengaluru-Belagavi National Highway (NH-48). Chargers will be installed along this stretch and at various toll points to facilitate smooth inter-city travel.
Q2: How many new charging stations are being planned? The pilot initiative involves setting up 30 stations on state highways and 20 stations on national highways, covering a total of roughly 40 toll points and key locations.
Q3: How can I find these charging stations? EV users can use the ‘EV Mithra’ app to locate BESCOM charging stations, check their availability in real-time, and navigate to them.
Q4: Are there charging stations at tourist spots? Yes. The Karnataka government is installing chargers at major tourist destinations, including KSTDC Mayura Hotels, Jungle Lodges & Resorts, and famous temples to promote sustainable tourism.
Q5: What is unique about the EV hub near Kempegowda International Airport? The charging hub near the airport is India’s first solar-powered EV hub. It utilizes second-life batteries to store solar energy, allowing for sustainable charging operations.
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