August 26, 2025: The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) is preparing to expand electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure along the Mumbai–Pune Expressway, with eight additional charging stations set to be operational by the end of the year. The initiative forms part of the state’s wider drive towards clean mobility and carbon-neutral highways, aimed at making long-distance travel more practical for EV users.
At present, the 94.5-kilometre expressway is equipped with just five charging points, a figure regarded as insufficient given the rapid growth in EV ownership across Maharashtra. Data from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways’ Vahan portal shows the state has registered more than 5.58 lakh EVs, making it one of the largest markets for electric mobility in the country. With nearly 1.4 lakh vehicles using the corridor daily, the demand for reliable charging facilities is becoming increasingly urgent.
Officials said a detailed study is being carried out to identify strategic sites for the new charging stations, ensuring drivers can cover the route without facing range anxiety – often cited as a major barrier to intercity adoption. A separate survey is also underway to assess current EV usage on the expressway and forecast future demand trends.
While the state government has introduced incentives such as toll exemptions for EVs on major highways, including the Mumbai–Pune Expressway, Samruddhi Mahamarg and Atal Setu, commuters argue that unreliable infrastructure remains a key concern. Many existing charging stations across Maharashtra have been found to be either non-functional or plagued by technical faults, eroding consumer confidence.
Industry experts believe MSRDC’s move is a positive step, but warn that timely execution is crucial. They add that collaboration with private operators and renewable energy providers could speed up the rollout while ensuring long-term sustainability.
Source: Urban Acres
