Delhi to Ban Petrol Rickshaws and Scooters to Combat Pollution

The Delhi government is initiating a transition to electric vehicles (EVs) for the city’s massive fleet of scooters, motorbikes, and autorickshaws to combat chronic air pollution. Under the new policy, the administration will limit new registration plates to electric models for three-wheelers and small trucks starting in 2027, followed by two-wheelers in 2028. This move aims to electrify 30% of the capital’s vehicle fleet by 2030, according to an official statement released Monday.

Why is Delhi targeting two- and three-wheelers?

Vehicular emissions currently account for an average of 23% of Delhi’s air pollutants, making transport the single largest source of emissions, according to government data. With tens of millions of vehicles on the road, scooters and rickshaws—mostly powered by petrol or compressed fossil gas—make up more than two-thirds of the total traffic volume. Amit Bhatt, the managing director of the International Council on Clean Transportation, stated that accelerating the shift to zero-emission vehicles for these specific segments could significantly improve public health and reduce the city’s overall emission profile.

How will the city support the EV transition?

The government has pledged to install more than 30,000 public charging points to address the concerns that have previously deterred drivers from abandoning traditional fuel vehicles. Vikas Nimesh, an assistant professor at the School of Public Policy at IIT Delhi, noted that the policy creates a necessary impetus for manufacturers to invest in green technology. To further incentivize adoption, the state has introduced significant road and vehicle tax exemptions for new electric car buyers.

What are the primary criticisms of the new policy?

Despite the environmental goals, some observers argue the timeline is overly aggressive. Critics suggest that a two-year window to phase out new petrol-based sales may not allow enough time for the market to offer sufficient consumer choice and affordable models. Furthermore, environmentalists like Bhavreen Kandhari argue that the policy focuses too heavily on replacing private vehicles rather than fixing systemic infrastructure issues.

“More cars on the road is not a solution,” Kandhari stated, emphasizing that the government should prioritize expanding green public transport and improving last-mile connectivity to metro and bus stops. While Delhi has a substantial metro system, critics maintain that poor connectivity remains a primary reason residents continue to rely on individual rickshaws and scooters.

Frequently Asked Questions

• When will petrol-powered three-wheelers be banned in Delhi?
  Under the new policy, only electric three-wheelers and small trucks will receive new licence plates starting in 2027.
• What is the goal for EV adoption by 2030?
  The Delhi government aims to have at least 30% of the capital’s total vehicle fleet running on electricity by 2030.
• Are there incentives for buying an electric car?
  Yes, the policy includes significant road and vehicle tax exemptions for consumers purchasing new electric cars.

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