In view of the increasing pollution and traffic problems in Delhi, the government has proposed a proposal for Electric Vehicle (EV) Policy 2.0. The objective of this policy is to promote electric vehicles by removing fossil fuel -powered vehicles in the capital in a phased manner. It plans to convert auto rickshaws, taxis and other vehicles into electric options.
E-Rickshaw, which is important for the final mile connectivity in Delhi, has now become a topic of discussion under the government’s new policy. The possibility of a ban on E-Rickshaw is being considered due to increasing number and violation of traffic rules.
Importance of E-Rickshaw and EV Policy 2.0
What are E-Rickshaw?
E-Rickshaw Battery-powered three-wheelers, which are mainly used for short distance trips. These are considered a better option for the environment as no fossil fuel is used in them.
Current Status of E-Rickshaw:
- Delhi has more than 1.2 lakh registered E-Rickshaws.
- They are used mainly to bring passengers to metro stations, markets, and other public places.
- However, these have become the subject of dispute due to violation of traffic rules and illegal charging stations.
What is EV Policy 2.0?
The aim of the EV Policy 2.0 of the Delhi government is to make the capital pollution free and promote the adoption of electric vehicles. This policy includes many important provisions:
Main Provision:
- CNG Auto Rickshaw:
- Registration of the new CNG auto rickshaw will be closed from 15 August 2025.
- It will be mandatory to convert the old CNG auto rickshaw (more than 10 years old) into a battery operated system.
- Two wheelers:
- Registration of two -wheelers operating from petrol, diesel and CNG will be closed from 15 August 2026.
- Public Transport:
- There are plans to convert Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) and other bus services completely into electric buses.
- Charging Infrastructure:
- Charging stations will be set up all over the city.
Possible ban on e-Rickshaw
The government has considered a ban on E-Rickshaw because:
- traffic violations:
- E-Rickshaw has become disputed due to wrong parking, overloading, and traffic jams.
- Illegal charging:
- Power theft and security risk are increasing due to illegal charging stations.
- safety issue:
- The safety of passengers is in danger due to accidents and poor battery standards.
E-Rickshaw and EV Policy: Comparison
| aspect | Description |
| pollution control | E-Rickshaws are pollution-free but illegal charging stole electricity. |
| traffic management | Lack of traffic rules causes jams and accidents. |
| EV Policy 2.0 | Charging infrastructure will be developed to promote electric vehicles. |
| Government support | Subsidy on purchasing EV and encouragement on changing old vehicles. |
| Safety measures | Action and driver training mandatory on illegal charging stations. |
| future plan | Work towards making all public transport electric. |
Solution proposed by government
The Delhi government has suggested the following steps to solve issues related to E-Rickshaw:
- Driver Training: License and training compulsory for all e-Rickshaw drivers.
- Ban on illegal charging: Closing illegal charging stations and installing authorized charging points.
- Traffic Management: Creating Roots and Zone prescribed for E-Rickshaw.
Benefits of EV Policy 2.0
environmental benefits:
- Reduction in air pollution.
- Help in reducing carbon emissions.
Economic benefits:
- New employment opportunities in EV industry.
- Investment in battery recycling and charging infrastructure.
Social benefits:
- Safe and inexpensive transport facility.
- Lack of health problems.
conclusion
EV Policy 2.0 of the Delhi government is an important step that will work towards making the capital pollution free and improving traffic management. However, there is a need to ban E-Rickshaw or control their operations to solve traffic jams, power theft, and security problems.
Disclaimer
This article is based on potential government decisions. At present, no official order has been issued to ban E-Rickshaw completely. EV Policy 2.0 is currently in the draft phase, in which changes are possible.
