The Jammu and Kashmir administration is worthy of appreciation for the visionary decision to allot Rs 13.99 crore towards the setting up of charging stations for electric vehicles in Srinagar.
With installation already started in places like Batamaloo, Harwan and Bemina, the authorities are taking a step towards a cleaner and greener, and hence, a safe and sound future for the summer capital of the union territory.
As far as electric cars are concerned, the J&K government is joining the elite league of cities which look upon such a venture as a feasible solution to the problem of air pollution and emission of greenhouse gases.
By choosing strategically important places like Batamaloo, Harwan and Bemina for the location of charging stations, the administration has taken a decision likely to overcome the hesitation expressed by many in adopting electric vehicles because buyers cannot be guaranteed a charging point nearby.
The initiative would lead to a slew of benefits such as boosting the economy as commuters, traders and transporters take to electric vehicles and reduce the ill-effects of pollution on human health.
Praising the government for taking this decision as also looking into ways and means of reducing traffic congestion and improving road safety in Jammu and Srinagar, one feels that the authorities are taking a holistic view of the issues.
While dealing with pollution and promoting clean technology and green highways, the government has also devoted attention to day-to-day problems of people such as traffic snarls and road accidents.
And by addressing these issues, the administration is projecting a concern for the welfare of even the humblest citizen.
So, in its chosen way, the administration is being proactive in dealing with traffic and pollution in a manner calculated to yield dividends in future years.
Srinagar is all set to become a role model for other Himalayan cities as a modern and enlightened city with proper infrastructure, a concern for the environment and a commitment to road safety.
It remains to be seen as to how soon the project is completed, public money is judiciously spent and people’s views are taken into account before any official notification is issued.
The J&K administration is to be complimented and encouraged to go ahead and make Srinagar a greener and safer place to live in.
