Kathmandu: Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, Kulman Ghising, emphasized the promotion of electric vehicles to control air pollution and transition the country towards a green economy. During the inauguration of charging stations operated by Change Digital in various locations, including Samakhusi, Minister Ghising highlighted the importance of converting petroleum vehicles to electric ones.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the Minister expressed that reducing the import of petroleum products could be achieved by increasing power consumption across all sectors, including households and industries. This shift would utilize the hydropower-generated electricity within the country, subsequently impacting the nation’s economy positively by improving the foreign exchange reserve due to decreased imports.
The government has prioritized electric vehicles through different policies and plans. Aiming for a greener future, the goal is to have 90 percent of private vehicles and 70 percent of public vehicles run on electricity by 2030. To support this transition, the Nepal Electricity Authority has established 62 charging stations nationwide, while approximately 800 charging stations are operated by the private sector.