The government of Delhi has laid out plans to systematically phase out petrol-powered scooters, motorcycles, and autorickshaws in an extensive effort to curb emissions and enhance the capital’s air quality. With an ambitious goal to electrify at least 30% of its vehicle fleet by 2030, the city is set to commence new registrations for electric three-wheelers and small commercial vehicles by 2027, followed by electric scooters and motorcycles in 2028.
Transport emissions are a major contributor to Delhi’s pollution issues, significantly impacting air quality, especially during the winter when smog is most severe. Vehicles account for a substantial proportion of the harmful pollutants in the air. Environmental experts have endorsed this new policy, suggesting that a shift towards electric two- and three-wheelers could substantially lower emissions and bolster public health.
To support this transition, the Delhi government plans to establish over 30,000 public charging points. However, the move has not been without its concerns. Auto-rickshaw drivers have voiced apprehensions about the potential challenges they might face, such as charging time, vehicle costs, maintenance issues, and possible income losses during the transition period. Some experts are also advocating for the government to focus more on expanding clean public transportation and enhancing last-mile connectivity.
The policy does include incentives for electric vehicle buyers, such as tax benefits, to encourage adoption. Nonetheless, critics have raised doubts about the feasibility of the timeline, arguing that the period may be too brief to adequately prepare drivers, manufacturers, and consumers for such a significant change.