New fast-charging stations along key corridors aim to eliminate range anxiety for EV users.
Electric vehicle users travelling across Karnataka’s highways may soon find charging stations at intervals of just 60–70 kilometres, as the state accelerates efforts to strengthen long-distance EV mobility.
The expansion is being led by Bangalore Electricity Supply Company (Bescom) in partnership with the Karnataka Road Development Corporation Limited (KRDCL). The initiative aims to create a dependable charging network across nearly 3,000 kilometres of state-managed road corridors, making intercity EV travel more practical.
KRDCL’s highway infrastructure already includes toll plazas, bus bays and truck lay-bys positioned roughly every 60–70 km. These locations are now being repurposed to host EV charging facilities, allowing faster rollout without major new construction. Charging stations are expected to become operational in phases over the coming months.
A formal memorandum of understanding between Bescom and KRDCL is under preparation. The agreement will define installation and maintenance responsibilities while ensuring traffic movement remains unaffected. Officials are also evaluating a revenue-sharing framework under which KRDCL could receive ₹1 per kWh of electricity consumed over a 10-year period.
Technical teams from both agencies have conducted joint inspections, identifying suitable infrastructure at 30 out of 42 surveyed toll plazas. Planned stations will support fast-charging technology and accommodate multiple vehicles simultaneously, improving convenience for highway travellers.
State officials say expanding reliable charging access is essential to accelerating EV adoption, particularly for long-distance journeys where range anxiety remains a key concern for buyers.
In addition to the broader rollout, Karnataka plans to install 20 charging points across 10 toll plazas on the Bengaluru–Belagavi National Highway under the PM E-Drive Scheme, further strengthening the state’s growing EV charging ecosystem.
