Southern Railway has initiated a significant project to install electric vehicle (EV) charging stations at multiple railway stations across Chennai. This move aims to promote sustainable transportation and cater to the growing number of EV users in the region.
The project involves setting up new EV charging points at several city train stations and upgrading existing ones to accommodate the increasing demand for electric vehicle infrastructure. Stations such as Avadi, Arakkonam, Basin Bridge Junction, Chengalpattu, Chennai Central, and Chennai Egmore are among the locations slated for these enhancements.
In collaboration with Ather Energy, Southern Railway plans to establish fast-charging stations at ten Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS) and suburban stations in Chennai. Each station will allocate approximately 100 square feet for the charging zone, enabling the installation of three chargers per location. These facilities will be accessible to both electric two-wheelers and four-wheelers.
Aravind Prasad, Head of Charging Infrastructure at Ather Energy, emphasized the significance of this partnership, stating that it will facilitate the adoption of electric vehicles in the city and pave the way for more public-private partnership models in the e-mobility sector.
Southern Railway’s initiative aligns with the broader goal of enhancing sustainable transportation infrastructure in India. By integrating EV charging stations into the railway network, the project aims to provide convenient charging options for commuters and reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation.
This development is part of Southern Railway’s ongoing efforts to modernize its facilities and support the country’s transition to cleaner energy sources. The successful implementation of this project could serve as a model for other regions looking to integrate EV infrastructure into public transportation hubs.
