Shillong: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma is pushing for electric vehicles across Meghalaya. He recently claimed that his own EV handles daily commutes on a single charge. He touted lower costs and better air quality for the city. Residents, however, are not convinced that the current infrastructure can keep pace.
Charging remains the biggest headache. Many locals live in cramped housing without private garages or parking spots. These owners rely on street parking, making home chargers impossible to install. A resident from Laitumkhrah noted the struggle. "Charging at home sounds convenient, but not everyone has a garage or driveway," the resident said.
Taxi drivers are particularly worried about the bottom line. These operators spend their entire day on the road and cannot afford hours of downtime at a charger. Many also frequently drive to nearby towns like Sohra or Guwahati, where charging stations are scarce. Without a reliable network, these workers fear for their livelihoods.
Some see potential in the switch. A lecturer from Mawlai pointed to rising traffic and pollution as reasons to move away from fossil fuels. Other locals want more data before they buy. They are asking for clear answers on battery life, maintenance bills, and resale values. The success of this green shift depends on government action. Planners must deliver more public charging stations and financial support to turn the vision into a reality.
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