Indian Railways has launched a policy to replace its entire fleet of vehicles running on diesel, biofuel or even natural gas with electric vehicles by December 2025.

Under the policy, an extensive charging infrastructure would be built at major train stations, office buildings and parking lots.

India must set up 46,000 EV charging stations by 2030 to match the global benchmark.

According to the timeline for the zones proposed by the railroads, the goal is to install 20 percent of the fossil fuel fleet by December 2023 and to phase out 20 percent of the fossil fuel fleet, 60 percent by 2024 and 100 percent by 2025.

The replacement of the inspection vehicles in the division offices and affiliated units would not be mandatory in the initial three-year phase, as the vehicles would be required by officials for visits to distant areas, where adequate charging infrastructure may not be available. The railways will also create an affordable and accessible charging infrastructure for users, including passengers, visitors and the general public, on its premises. The general managers of the zonal railways have been asked to advise their officials on the designation and demarcation of parking spaces in office complexes and station areas for the construction of EV charging facilities.