Delhi’s transport authorities are crafting a fresh set of rules to manage the booming e-rickshaw sector, which now boasts over 200,000 registered vehicles zipping through the streets.
Key Policy Goals
Officials aim to tidy up operations by simplifying registrations for unregistered vehicles while giving owners grace periods to comply, all without disrupting daily earnings. The framework will define specific zones for e-rickshaws, bar them from fast lanes, and enforce stricter checks on vehicle fitness.
Driver and Safety Measures
Badges and uniforms could soon become mandatory for drivers to boost commuter trust and visibility. Transport Minister Pankaj Singh stresses protecting livelihoods alongside road safety for all users, with public feedback planned after the draft rolls out.
Challenges and Expert Input
E-rickshaws thrive in colonies and metro routes for cheap last-mile rides but spark woes like road clutter, parking chaos, and unsafe charging that risks fires. Amit Bhatt from ICCT urges linking them to buses and autos while fixing power access issues. Past 2014 bans on busy roads proved hard to uphold, pushing this holistic approach.
