Impact of Electric Vehicles in Kolkata for Better City’s Air (Selected Routes)

Road transport is an important sector in the development of a nation. Public transport systems in India run predominantly on fossil fuels. This leads to high levels of pollution in urban areas and contributes to the growing current account deficit arising from high fuel imports. The consumption of liquid fuel in transport sector has been increasing rapidly along with increase in population and industrialization. The continuous increase in the price of fuel, gradually depleting sources of natural reserves and increasing pollution level have added to the concerns of the country. The present study examines the possible impacts on economy and environment by the implementation of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) along with the conventional road transport system in metropolitans with a case study of selected routes of Kolkata. The objectives of the present study were to examine: a) To study the growth trends of Electronic Vehicles(EV) in India and Kolkata.b) To analyse the factors responsible for EV adoption in Kolkata.c) To discuss the impact social, economic, and environmental impacts of electric vehicles (EVs), d) To highlight factors which acted as a hindrance for EV adoption and e) Some suggestions for more adoption of EVs. The present study is conducted for different types of public transportation vehicles of Kolkata like - buses (6 wheelers), cars(4wheelers) and totos (3 wheelers). The routes which are selected include AC31, AC12D and AC 4B. The bus depos like CSTC Bus Depo of Silpara, 3A Bus Stand, Jadavpur 8B Bus Stand. And Garia Toto stand and E-rikshaw stand of Thakurpukur. About 100 individuals including drivers, conductors, helpers, and vehicle owners have been surveyed through personal interviews to gather the required information. Ten random fuel stations have been selected to collect data regarding fuel stations. The owners, managers, and workers of the fuel stations have been interviewed with pre-formatted questionnaire.The results of the analysis show that Kolkata’s green drive shows rising EV adoption, supported by FAME incentives but hindered by high costs. Replacing diesel vehicles with EVs reduces major pollutants and offers carbon trading benefits. EVs bring clear economic savings in daily and monthly energy costs compared to conventional fuels.Adoption remains income-dependent, with higher earners more willing, while affordability limits lower groups. EV adoption requires a dual approach: policy shifts toward mandates and localized supply chains, alongside research into advanced batteries, smart charging, and sustainable recycling to ensure long-term affordability and sustainability.This balance of regulation and innovation creates a clear roadmap for accelerating the transition to clean mobility