Udupi: In a major boost to rural infrastructure and local self-governance, nine gram panchayats in Udupi district are set to receive Bharat Petroleum fuel stations, electric vehicle (EV) charging centres and Bharat Cafés along National and State Highways. The initiative, announced by Udupi-Chikkamagaluru MP Kota Srinivas Poojary, makes Karnataka the second state after Telangana to implement such a model.
The project is expected to generate new revenue streams for gram panchayats while improving access to fuel, electric mobility and convenience services in rural areas.
Centre targets rollout within six months
Speaking after a meeting with Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) officials and district authorities in Udupi, MP Kota Srinivas Poojary said the Central Government has set a target of making the facilities operational within six months.
Under the initiative, Bharat Petroleum will establish petrol pumps, EV charging stations, compressed natural gas (CNG) dispensing facilities and Bharat Cafés on highways passing through selected gram panchayats.
The project is designed to strengthen rural infrastructure while supporting the growing adoption of electric vehicles and cleaner transportation options.
Panchayats to earn rent and commission
A key feature of the initiative is that the facilities will be developed on land owned by the respective gram panchayats.
According to the MP, Bharat Petroleum will pay rent for the use of the land and will also provide the panchayats with a commission on business transactions carried out at the outlets.
This revenue-sharing model is expected to enhance the financial independence of local self-government institutions, enabling them to improve public services and undertake developmental works.
The fuel stations will supply petrol, diesel and other petroleum products, while also offering EV charging and CNG dispensing services, making them integrated mobility centres for rural communities.
Land records handed over to BPCL
During the review meeting, Kota Srinivas Poojary handed over the land records of the identified gram panchayat sites to Bharat Petroleum officials and instructed them to expedite the implementation of the project.
Describing the initiative as a landmark step, the MP said the concept of establishing petrol pumps through gram panchayats was personally satisfying, as it would empower local bodies economically while benefiting residents.
He expressed confidence that the model would strengthen grassroots governance by creating sustainable, long-term revenue sources.
Nine gram panchayats selected in first phase
In the first phase, nine gram panchayats across three taluks have been identified for the project.
The selected gram panchayats are:
- Mudradi, Belve and Albadi in Hebri taluk
- Mudaru, Belmannu, Sanoor, Kukkandoor and Bailoor in Karkala taluk
- Tenkanidiyoor in Udupi taluk
Surveys are also under way in other parts of the district to identify additional locations for similar facilities.
According to the MP, the long-term objective is to establish at least one gram panchayat-run petrol pump in every Assembly constituency in Udupi district.
Boost for rural development
The initiative is expected to create employment opportunities, improve access to fuel and modern mobility services, and provide a steady source of income for gram panchayats.
By integrating fuel stations with EV charging facilities, CNG dispensing units and Bharat Cafés, the project also aligns with the government’s focus on promoting sustainable transportation and improving rural connectivity.
Officials believe the model could serve as a template for other districts if implemented successfully.
Officials attend review meeting
The meeting was attended by Bharat Petroleum Regional Manager Vipin Das Vanshwal, Udupi Zilla Panchayat CEO Prateek Boyal, Assistant Secretary James D’Silva, Karkala Taluk Panchayat Executive Officer Prashanth M. N., Udupi Taluk Panchayat Executive Officer Vijaya, along with other district officials.
The project is expected to significantly strengthen rural infrastructure while providing gram panchayats with a sustainable source of revenue and expanding access to fuel and clean mobility services across Udupi district.