In a bid to tackle the pressing issue of air pollution, Delhi’s government has declared its intention to phase out petrol-powered scooters, motorcycles, and autorickshaws over time. This initiative is a part of a larger strategy to curb emissions and enhance the capital’s air quality. The new policy targets a significant shift towards electric vehicles, with an ambitious goal of electrifying at least 30% of the vehicle fleet by the year 2030. Starting in 2027, the city plans to commence new registrations exclusively for electric three-wheelers and small commercial vehicles, followed by electric scooters and motorcycles a year later.
The move comes as transport emissions are identified as a major contributor to Delhi’s pollution woes, notably worsening during winter when severe smog envelops the city. Vehicles are reported to release a considerable amount of harmful pollutants into the air, exacerbating the situation. Environmentalists have praised the government’s plan, asserting that transitioning to electric two- and three-wheelers could lead to a substantial decline in emissions, thereby benefiting public health. To facilitate this transition, the government has also committed to installing over 30,000 public charging points across the city.
Despite the optimism from environmental experts, the proposal has sparked concerns among auto-rickshaw drivers. They have expressed apprehensions regarding the practicality of charging times, the expenses associated with electric vehicles, maintenance challenges, and potential income disruptions during the shift. Additionally, some experts have called on the government to prioritize the expansion of clean public transportation options and to enhance the connectivity of the last mile, to ensure a comprehensive approach to reducing pollution.
The policy includes a range of incentives, such as tax benefits for those purchasing electric vehicles, aimed at encouraging the adoption of greener alternatives. However, critics have pointed out that the timeline set by the government might be too tight for a smooth transition. They argue that drivers, manufacturers, and consumers may not be adequately prepared within the given timeframe to adapt to the changes, potentially leading to challenges in the widespread adoption of electric vehicles.