Bengaluru: In a major boost to Karnataka’s electric mobility ambitions, the Centre Tuesday approved the state’s proposal to establish 1,243 EV-charging stations under PM E-Drive scheme, paving the way for largescale expansion of charging infrastructure across the state.The approval comes days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi advocated for wider adoption of battery-operated vehicles to reduce fuel consumption and cut foreign exchange outflow. Karnataka submitted its proposal nearly six months ago, seeking support to roll out 1,250 high-capacity charging stations.Announcing the approval at a conference on “Enabling nationwide EV-charging infrastructure under PM E-Drive scheme” in Bengaluru, Union minister for heavy industries HD Kumaraswamy said Karnataka is fast becoming a frontrunner in India’s EV transition, and “Bengaluru has emerged as the country’s leading EV-charging hub by aggressively pursuing the concept”.According to state govt sources, the overall project is estimated to cost Rs 777 crore. Of this, the Centre is expected to contribute Rs 352 crore, while the remaining will be borne by electricity supply companies (Escoms). TOI had first reported about Karnataka’s proposal on Oct 21, 2025.Officials said under the first phase of PM E-Drive scheme, 406 high-capacity charging stations will come up at strategic locations, particularly along national highways, to support long-distance EV travel. The scheme offers 100% subsidy for upstream infrastructure such as transformers, transmission lines and conductors, along with 70% subsidy for other equipment.The initiative also aims at strengthening Karnataka’s EV ecosystem beyond private vehicles by supporting electric buses and trucks. Bangalore Electricity Supply Company (Bescom), the nodal agency for implementing the charging network, has proposed high-capacity stations to facilitate this shift towards cleaner commercial mobility.“Each of these stations support fast charging ranging from 60 kW to 240 kW, which is sufficient to recharge heavy vehicles in 30 to 45 minutes for long-distance operations. Besides, these charging points will help EV owners overcome range anxiety while travelling on major highways, as these stations are likely to come up in and around fuel stations,” an energy department official explained.
