In a major push towards green mobility, the Odisha Transport Department has issued a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the establishment of Electric Vehicle (EV) charging stations across all urban local bodies in the state.

Municipal authorities have been directed to identify suitable land for setting up charging stations. Priority will be given to government buildings, parking hubs, markets and other public spaces. While selecting locations, authorities will ensure adequate land availability, public accessibility, power connectivity, safety measures, parking facilities and future expansion potential.

Urban Bodies to Develop Supporting Infrastructure

The SOP requires urban local bodies to develop essential infrastructure around charging stations, including parking sheds, lighting facilities, drinking water, sanitation services and other amenities.

Selected agencies will be responsible for the installation, operation and maintenance of EV charging infrastructure to ensure uninterrupted services for EV users.

EVs Made Mandatory for Government Departments

In another significant step, the Odisha government has made it mandatory for all government departments to purchase electric vehicles from June 1. Government offices will also be required to hire EVs for official use.

The new policy applies to all levels of administration, from block and tehsil offices to the offices of the Chief Minister and Governor. The Finance Department’s directive has come into effect across the state from June 1.

Monthly Rental Rates Fixed for EV Usage

The government has fixed monthly rental rates for EVs used by different categories of officials. Vehicles used by the Governor, Chief Minister, High Court Chief Justice, judges and ministers will attract rental payments of up to Rs 80,000 per month.

Senior officials such as the Chief Secretary, Development Commissioner and Revenue Board members will receive EV rentals of Rs 70,000 per month, while Additional Chief Secretaries, Principal Secretaries and Secretaries will be entitled to Rs 65,000.

District Collectors, SPs and District Judges will receive EV rentals of Rs 60,000, while block and tehsil-level officers will be eligible for Rs 55,000 per month.

Focus on Green Governance and Fuel Savings

The government has also allowed departments to hire up to 300 EVs through the Odisha Renewable Energy Development Agency (OREDA). The policy will apply not only to government departments but also to state-run enterprises, universities, educational institutions and government-supported bodies.

Officials said the move aims to reduce dependence on fossil fuels, lower fuel expenditure amid global energy uncertainties and promote environmentally sustainable governance. The initiative is expected to accelerate EV adoption while contributing to Odisha’s clean energy and climate goals.

The post Odisha Rolls Out SOP for EV Charging Stations, Makes Electric Vehicles Mandatory for Government Use appeared first on Odisha Connect.

Minister Dr. Krushna Chandra Mohapatra announces major push for sustainable public transport

Bhubaneswar, September 5, 2025:
Odisha is set to make a big leap towards eco-friendly public transport with the planned rollout of 600 new electric buses, announced Housing & Urban Development Minister Dr. Krushna Chandra Mohapatra on Friday.

Meeting Growing Urban Demand

The Minister informed that the state needs around 1,000 e-buses to cater to its expanding urban mobility requirements. Out of this, 200 buses will be procured by the State Government, while the Central Government will provide 400 e-buses under the leadership of the Hon’ble Prime Minister.

First Phase Rollout

In the initial phase, 25 e-buses will be introduced in Sambalpur. This will be followed by gradual deployment in Jharsuguda, Keonjhar, Berhampur, and Angul. The services will be operated by Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT) under its flagship “Aam Bus” initiative, which focuses on safe, affordable, and green public transport.

Odisha’s National Standing in E-Bus Operations

Odisha has already emerged as a leader in sustainable mobility, securing the 5th position nationally with a fleet of 450 e-buses currently operational. On a larger scale, India has 14,329 e-buses running under schemes such as PM-E Bus Sewa and PM-E Drive, from which Odisha has been an active beneficiary.

Towards Greener Cities

“With the rollout of 600 e-buses, Odisha is taking a decisive step towards greener cities and smarter urban transport,” Dr. Mohapatra emphasized, highlighting the government’s commitment to sustainable mobility and climate-friendly infrastructure.

The post Odisha to Roll Out 600 E-Buses for Green Mobility appeared first on Odisha Connect.