Bengaluru: The state government is proposing to amend building by-laws to make electric vehicle charging stations and parking lots mandatory at all commercial buildings. The proposals also include offering round-the-clock charging facility to electric vehicles and on-the-spot metering and payment services.
The proposals issued by the Chief Secretary, a copy of which is with Deccan Chronicle, states that instructions on installing e-charging points have been sent to the Urban Development Department (UDD) from energy department to make necessary changes in the by-laws to make provisions for dedicated charging and parking spaces.
A senior government official, requesting anonymity, said, “The draft proposal has been prepared and based on that, the government will amend the building by-laws and master plan regulations. They will be applicable to multi-level parking complexes, bus terminals and service stations. UDD has been asked to process the proposals fast. Also, Bescom has already finished installing charging points at Vidhana Soudha and Vikasa Soudha by November 15.”
Bescom operates a charging station with two fast chargers and a slow charger at its corporate offices at KR Circle. In six months, it is targeting to commission 11 points across the city, including in Peenya, Mathikere, Yelahanka, Banaswadi, Indiranagar, HAL II Stage, Mahadevapura and Murugeshpalya. The BMTC, planning to run electric buses, has also planned to install bus charging points at two bus depots in HSR Layout and Electronic City. It is also thinking of installing a charging station at the Kempegowda International Airport.
“The initiatives are good. But at the same time, the authorities should also make a provision for increased electricity loads at these buildings so that there is no problem in power supply to other necessities,” said Mr Purushotham P., an advocate and urban expert.
The government source said that high-rise buildings, including shopping malls, apartment complexes and hotels over 15 metres tall, should adhere to these norms.
