The death of a 65-year-old auto driver in a suspected EV charging fire incident has intensified concerns over electric vehicle safety in Bengaluru, with the Karnataka government yet to introduce a dedicated Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for residential charging infrastructure.

The incident has once again highlighted safety risks linked to EV charging stations in densely populated apartment complexes and residential buildings across the city.

Government yet to implement dedicated EV safety norms

Officials from the Karnataka Fire and Emergency Services said the department currently follows provisions under the National Building Code (NBC) 2016, while the proposed NBC 2025 guidelines are still awaiting formal approval and implementation.

According to officials, the new norms are expected to introduce clearer safety rules related to charger specifications, ventilation systems, charging distances, and basement parking safety.

Basement charging remains a concern

Despite repeated warnings from fire safety officials, several apartment complexes in Bengaluru continue installing EV charging points in basement parking areas.

Apartment association representatives said the absence of a clear government-issued SOP or prohibition from agencies such as Bescom and KERC has led many residents to continue using basement charging facilities.

Under the proposed NBC 2025 recommendations, EV charging stations may not be allowed below ground level. If permitted in basements, only slow or trickle charging could be authorised.

Draft norms propose stricter fire safety measures

Officials said the proposed rules also recommend:

  • Compartmentalised charging zones
  • Mandatory fire-resistant materials
  • Sand buckets and specialised extinguishers
  • Proper earthing and surge protection systems

Authorities are also studying measures to prevent overloading of electrical systems in residential buildings as EV usage rapidly grows in Bengaluru.

The incident has sparked calls for the Karnataka government to urgently introduce stricter EV charging safety regulations before more accidents occur.#Bengaluru #EVCharging #FireSafety #KarnatakaGovernment #ElectricVehicles #newskarnataka