Surat: In a pioneering move to promote environmental protection and fuel conservation, the Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC) has introduced India’s first 'Green Vehicle Policy 2025', which has received approval from the city's Standing Committee. This policy comes into effect following the conclusion of the city’s previous five-year electric vehicle (EV) policy and aims to boost the adoption of green and eco-friendly transportation solutions.
As per report, the new policy is designed to encompass a broader spectrum of green vehicle technologies, including not just electric vehicles but also hydrogen-powered and bio-fuel vehicles. Standing Committee Chairman Rajan Patel shared that this initiative reflects the city’s commitment to combating climate change while modernizing its transport systems.
One of the key features of the policy includes a proposed 50 percent waiver on vehicle tax for green vehicle owners. While this could reduce revenue for the municipal body, the SMC plans to seek compensation through grants from the central government.
The policy sets an ambitious target of achieving 50 percent electric vehicle sales in the city by 2030, under the initiative EVS0@2030. To ensure effective implementation, a three-tier ‘Green Vehicle Cell’ will be formed comprising representatives from the SMC, police, power and transport departments, and the South Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry. A special committee will also be constituted within the next month to draft a detailed implementation report.
To attract citizens towards green mobility, several incentives have been planned under the policy. Over 460 public charging stations will be established across the city, ensuring one station per square kilometer. Financial support will be raised under the 'Surat Green Vehicle Fund' through green bonds, CSR contributions, and carbon financing mechanisms.
Additionally, a dedicated ‘Green Vehicle Portal’ and ‘One EV App’ will be launched to spread awareness and provide real-time information to users.
Owners of green vehicles will benefit from a range of incentives, including a graded tax rebate: 100 percent in the first year, 75 percent in the second, 50 percent in the third, and 25 percent in the fourth year. Economic support will also be provided in specific categories, such as a ₹3,000 subsidy for the first 2,000 electric three-wheeler goods vehicles and ₹5,000 for the first 1,000 e-rickshaws and 100 pink autos. Moreover, the first 200 light commercial EVs will receive a 0.5 percent loan interest subsidy, up to a limit of ₹18,000.
Other benefits include free parking and 10 percent reserved parking for green vehicles. Registered owners will receive a ‘Surat Money Card’ offering discounted travel on Sitilink buses. Institutions and corporations where more than 30 percent of the vehicles are green will be awarded green certification. Furthermore, vocational courses on EV technologies will be introduced, with a special focus on women's participation.
This landmark policy not only strengthens Surat's journey toward becoming a cleaner and greener city but also sets the stage for it to emerge as a national hub for green vehicle manufacturing and innovation.
