Introduction
In a significant move to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) and combat air pollution, the Telangana government has announced a comprehensive EV policy. Unveiled by the Minister for Transport, Ponnam Prabhakar, this policy aims to create a cleaner environment while ensuring that the state capital, Hyderabad, does not succumb to severe pollution issues akin to those faced by New Delhi.
Key Features of the EV Policy
The newly implemented policy provides a 100% exemption from road tax and registration fees on the purchase of electric vehicles for a two-year period, effective until December 31, 2026. This exemption is applicable to a wide range of vehicles, including:
- Electric two-wheelers
- Electric four-wheelers
- Commercial passenger vehicles (such as taxis and tourist cabs)
- Three-seater autorickshaws
- Electric light goods carriers (including three-wheeled goods carriers)
- Tractors
- Electric buses
Furthermore, the policy eliminates the previous limit on tax exemptions for the first 5,000 EVs, allowing for unlimited registrations with these benefits. As a result, electric two-wheelers can save up to ₹15,000, while electric four-wheelers can save as much as ₹3 lakh in taxes and fees. Additionally, electric buses operated by companies for employee transport will also be exempt from these taxes.
Government Support for the EV Initiative
To bolster the transition to electric vehicles, the Telangana government is committed to collaborating with EV manufacturers to establish more charging stations throughout cities, towns, and along state and national highways. Furthermore, plans are underway to introduce a vehicle scrappage policy targeting vehicles that are 15 years or older. This will help phase out older, more polluting vehicles, with a goal of replacing approximately 3,000 buses operated by the state road transport corporation in the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation area with electric buses.
Rationale Behind the EV Policy
The impetus for this special EV policy stems from the need for cleaner air in a greener state. The Telangana government, led by A. Revanth Reddy, is particularly focused on reducing pollution levels in Hyderabad and the surrounding regions. Prabhakar has urged residents contemplating new vehicle purchases to consider electric options to contribute to pollution reduction and environmental preservation.
Conclusion
With the launch of this EV policy, the Telangana government is taking decisive steps toward promoting sustainable transportation and improving air quality in the region. By enabling broader access to electric vehicles through tax exemptions and supporting infrastructure development, the state aims to foster a greener future for its residents.
