Source : PTI | Electric vehicle charging hubs equipped with multiple charging points and battery-swapping facilities will soon come up at MCD parking lots near major markets, commercial complexes and Metro stations across Delhi, officials said on Monday.
The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has initiated the process of identifying sites and inviting proposals from public sector undertakings (PSUs), they added.
In a letter dated June 19, the civic body has written to around 10 PSUs engaged in EV charging infrastructure, seeking proposals for developing integrated charging hubs at MCD parking sites as part of efforts to expand Delhi’s charging network amid rising adoption of electric vehicles.
Unlike standalone charging stations, the proposed hubs are expected to house over 25 charging points at a single location and cater to a mix of vehicles, including electric cars and two-wheelers, officials said.
“The idea is to create dedicated EV charging hubs at locations where people naturally park their vehicles – near markets, commercial complexes and Metro stations. These are high-footfall areas and can support a larger charging ecosystem,” a senior MCD official told PTI.
Officials noted that MCD-owned parking lots are being prioritised for the project, though other government land parcels may also be considered depending on feasibility and approvals.
Battery-swapping facilities are also likely to form part of the hubs, particularly for electric two-wheelers, which account for a significant share of Delhi’s EV population, they said.
“Battery swapping is preferred by many two-wheeler users because it reduces downtime. Instead of waiting for the vehicle to charge, riders can simply exchange a discharged battery for a fully charged one and continue their journey,” the official said.
He added that the charging hubs are expected to include both fast and slow chargers. While fast chargers are likely to be favoured at busy public locations, slow chargers could serve users who leave their vehicles parked for longer durations.
“Two PSUs have already expressed interest in the initiative. One proposal seeks to set up a hub with around 30 charging stations, while another proposes a facility with 27 charging points,” the official said, adding that both proposals are currently under examination by the civic body.
Given the investment involved in developing large charging hubs, the MCD is also considering measures such as fencing and the deployment of security personnel to protect equipment from theft and vandalism.
“These are not isolated charging points. A charging hub involves a large investment and contains expensive equipment. Operators may therefore have to make security arrangements, including guards and fencing, to safeguard the infrastructure,” the official said.
The MCD is currently assessing site suitability, electricity requirements and operational modalities before finalising locations.
According to official data, 470 EV charging and battery-swapping stations are currently operational across Delhi.
Officials said the proposed hubs are expected to strengthen Delhi’s public charging infrastructure and address growing demand from EV users as the capital witnesses a steady increase in electric vehicle registrations.
