Decarbonising Spiritual Corridors: EV Integration in South Tamil Nadu’s Carbon-Neutral Hubs – A Case-Based Analysis

Abstract

Background: Pilgrimage routes create self-reinforcing growth in transport demand and carbon emissions, driven by regular increases and seasonal fluctuations, which are heavily dependent on fossil-fuel-based transport modes and the scarcity of low-carbon infrastructure. There are major spiritual corridors in South Tamil Nadu that are becoming increasingly relevant to state-level decarbonisation and electric mobility agendas. The adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in pilgrimage-focused transport systems is still informal and not well institutionalised, despite positive policy indicators. Objective: This paper uses a case-based analysis method to explore recent policy developments, the electrification of public transport, renewable-charging pilot projects, district-based decarbonisation planning, and new private-sector partnerships in Tamil Nadu. Methodology: Based on policy documents, government reports, district action plans, and other secondary sources, the research will assess the preparedness of the spiritual corridors to deploy EVs and determine the operational, infrastructural, and governance barriers. Results: The discussion shows that, although enabling structures and market interest now exist, decarbonisation at the corridor level can only be achieved through hybrid charging systems, seasonality-capable contract distribution, inter-agency coordination, and all-inclusive transition pathways for informal transport operators. Conclusion: The final contribution of the paper is a framework for the context-sensitive implementation of decarbonisation in spiritual corridors through electric mobility.