(TOI)
In a major push to make state capital a zero-carbon emission city, corporation submitted a fresh proposal to the district planning committee (DPC) seeking subsidies for electric vehicles (EVs) and solar rooftop installations across all 100 wards.
Currently, solar panel roofing is being implemented at several govt offices across the city. Building on this momentum, corporation’s proposal aims to extend solar infrastructure to residential rooftops, particularly targeting lower- and middle-income households to improve energy access and cut conventional electricity usage. The proposal, submitted a few days ago, includes a plan to provide EVs, specifically e-autorickshaws and delivery vehicles, to gig workers and auto drivers. Corporation believes this would significantly reduce vehicular emissions, a major contributor to the city’s carbon footprint.
Corporation secretary Jahamgeer S said the initiative reflects the civic body’s commitment to both environmental and social equity. “Our vision is to transition Thiruvananthapuram into a zero-emission city by enabling clean mobility and promoting renewable energy at the community level,” he said.
“We want to ensure that even gig workers and auto drivers have access to electric mobility solutions, not just the affluent,” he said.Corporation will now prepare a detailed project report (DPR), expected within two months, to be submitted to state govt for final approval.
A coordination committee is being set up and is scheduled to meet next month to deliberate on various components of the DPR and incorporate stakeholder feedback. According to officials, the plan involves providing subsidies to residents willing to install rooftop solar panels. Special focus will be on housing colonies and areas with high energy consumption. Corporation is also exploring partnerships with energy companies and govt agencies to streamline implementation. The proposed transition to EVs for all autorickshaws and gig workers is expected to be rolled out in phases.
Charging infrastructure will be developed simultaneously, with stations planned at major transport hubs and public parking areas. Corporation’s green ambitions also align with the larger goals of CITIIS 2.0 project and the state’s climate action roadmap. CITIIS 2.0 is an Union govt initiative that promotes a circular economy with focus on integrated waste management and climate action.
Besides reducing emissions, these projects are expected to create green jobs, lower household energy costs and improve overall quality of life in urban areas. Corporation officials emphasised that public support will be critical to the zero-emission plan’s success. Awareness campaigns, ward-level consultations and pilot projects are also in the pipeline to ensure wide participation and smooth implementation.
Last year, the corporation, Energy Management Centre, WRI India and Indian Green Building Council organised a stakeholder consultation workshop to develop a city action plan for net zero carbon and resilient buildings. The city has an air quality index (AQI) of 66, which is the lowest in the country, according to the latest data from the central pollution control board (CPCB).
