Chennai corporation to set up EV charging stations in 15 key city areas soon

Chennai: Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) will soon install electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in areas such as Anna Nagar, T Nagar, Nungambakkam, Adyar and Besant Nagar. Each site will feature two charging points.The stations will be set up alongside parking facilities in these areas, enabling motorists to charge their vehicles while they park."This will benefit not only private EV owners but also app-based taxi operators, logistics providers and delivery partners who increasingly rely on electric two-wheelers and cars," said chief engineer B Shankaravelu. "Many gig workers spend long hours on the road. Access to reliable charging points in busy commercial and residential areas will improve operational convenience," he said. Earlier ward 104 councillor (DMK) T V Shemmozhi pushed for the installation of EV charging stations during a council meeting. "Many people have shifted to EVs and are struggling to find charging facilities. The corporation should provide free charging stations, especially in residential areas," Shemmozhi said.Following the request, mayor R Priya said charging stations would be established in over 15 locations across the city. The announcement was subsequently made, and work is expected to commence by the end of this year. Under a public-private partnership, the corporation will launch a revamped Smart Parking Management System. The chargers will blend into parking zones. "Integrating charging facilities with planned parking will help us," said M Rajkumar, a bike taxi rider.