Thiruvananthapuram: The government has constituted a high-level task force to initiate steps for the growth of the electric transport systems (e-mobility) in the state. The state government is considering electric cars not only as a solution to the increasing air pollution but also as a solution to the manage the surplus power generated during non-peak periods, according to sources. Principal advisor to Union ministry of power, Asok Jhunjhunwala, will be heading the seven-member high-level task force comprising senior officials and experts. The mandate given to the task force is to take initiatives for the sustained growth of e-mobility.
“Obviously use of electric vehicles could address health hazards posed by air pollution. This apart, the increased use of electric vehicles will also help optimise the utilisation of surplus power generated by KSEB during off-peak hours. Hence the state is planning to create an ecosystem conducive for e-mobility,” a government source said. IT secretary M. Sivasankar will be the convenor of the task force to popularise electric vehicles.
Other members are R&D manager of electric vehicle mission with Union department of science and technology Sajid Mubashir, additional chief secretary (power) Paul Antony, transport secretary K. R. Jyothilal, tourism secretary Venu V. and India Smart Grid Forum president Reji Kumar Pillai. Sources said the government had already issued formal orders constituting the task force, which is likely to meet soon.
