Uttar Pradesh is set to build 72 fast charging stations for electric vehicles along five major expressways. The Uttar Pradesh Expressways Industrial Development Authority (UPEDA) will spearhead this initiative, opting for a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. The bidding process for this ambitious project is expected to conclude by December, with construction slated to commence in January next year.

The first phase of development will see the creation of 26 fast charging stations, strategically positioned on the Agra Lucknow Expressway in cities such as Agra, Mainpuri, Etawah, Kanpur Nagar, Unnao, and Lucknow. These stations will cater not only to electric cars but also facilitate charging for electric buses. Moreover, the sites will offer a unique battery-swapping facility, allowing drivers to exchange depleted batteries for fully charged ones.

Charging stations will extend to other expressways as well. Along the Bundelkhand Expressway, stations will be situated in Chitrakoot, Banda, Hamirpur, Jalaun, and Etawah, providing comprehensive coverage. On the Purvanchal Expressway, charging stations will be strategically placed in Barabanki, Amethi, Sultanpur, Azamgarh, Mau, and Ghazipur.

The second phase of development will include charging stations along the Gorakhpur Link Expressway, Gorakhpur, and Ambedkar Nagar. Additionally, plans for charging stations along the Ganga Expressway are in the pipeline, pending completion of the construction.

Currently, existing charging stations along the Agra Lucknow Expressway and Yamuna Expressway lack fast charging facilities. The new initiative aims to address this gap and is part of the Yogi government's broader plan to establish 2,000 charging stations across the state. The comprehensive approach includes provisions for electric bikes, cars, and buses, making Uttar Pradesh a significant player in fostering sustainable and green transportation solutions.