Karnataka is accelerating its electric mobility drive, with the Energy Department announcing the installation of 70 additional EV charging stations across national and state highways. The project, to be carried out by Bangalore Electricity Supply Company (Bescom), will make intercity travel in electric vehicles more practical and sustainable. Charging stations will be set up along the Bengaluru-Belagavi National Highway (NH-48) and at many toll plazas, ensuring seamless connection between major cities and industrial areas.

Bescom Managing Director Shivashankar N. stated that the measure would alleviate range anxiety and boost long-distance EV travel. He added that installing charging stations near tourist destinations and public locations would promote green tourism and clean energy adoption throughout Karnataka.

Officials pointed out that Karnataka presently leads the country with approximately 6,000 public charging stations, demonstrating the state’s commitment to renewable mobility. In the pilot stage, 30 stations will be located at state highway toll plazas and 40 along national highways, pending approval from the concerned authorities.

Once operational, the network will connect industrial regions, tourism circuits, and interstate trade routes, increasing the state’s remarkable 11% EV adoption rate.