CM Nitish Kumar reaches state assembly in electric car

PATNA: Chief minister (CM) Nitish Kumar launched the state’s first electric car on Thursday. He even reached the legislative assembly from his 1, Anne Marg residence in the vehicle.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the CM pointed out that electric mobility was an attractive, sustainable and profitable way to deal with the threats posed by vehicular emission. “It is a step towards a clean and green environment,” he said.
According to transport secretary Sanjay Kumar Agarwal, the government can rent electric cars for its officials at a cost of Rs 22,500 per month for a period of five years. “The step will help curb pollution and protect the environment. Those, who wish to buy the car, can book it at any showroom by paying Rs 11 lakh,” he said, adding, “The government is promoting the use of electric vehicles using green technology by giving a 50% rebate on road tax.”
At present, six electric cars have been procured from the Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL).
“The government has signed a five-year agreement with the EESL and will procure more electric cars in future. The firm will first install three charging stations at the CM office, Secretariat and Vishveshwarya Bhawan and later identify 10 more locations in the city for the purpose,” Agarwal said.
The transport secretary pointed out that the government had been actively taking steps to create a healthy environment. He said, “The growing fleet of vehicles as a result of mass urbanization has led to high levels of pollution in the state capital.”
Electric vehicles are cost-effective and environment friendly. They save fuel and reduce noise pollution. “Every electric car can save 2,500 litres of fuel every year,” Agarwal said.