Delhi is considered to be the most polluted city in the world. In fact, the city experiences a public health emergency every winter due to the rise in air pollution, which has become a recurrent annual crisis. Vehicular pollution is one of the major contributing factor to this. In order to combat this, recently, the Delhi government has notified the Electric Vehicles (EV) Policy 2020. The policy lays the maximum emphasis on replacement of two-wheelers, public transport and shared vehicles and goods-carriers instead of private four-wheelers, with Electric Vehicles (EVs).
Features of Electric Vehicles (EV) Policy 2020
The policy envisions the replacement of the existing auto-rickshaws and State-run buses with e-autos and e-buses respectively in the Union Territory. It also aims to ensure that delivery-based services operating in the city are powered by e-mobility.
The policy also talks about increasing road tax for fuel-based vehicles, at least in the luxury segment. In addition to this it aims to impose a congestion fee that EVs will be exempt from, in certain parts of the city. This will help in promoting the adoption of EVs.
In order to encourage more people to switch from fossil-fuel-based vehicles to EVs, the policy provides for a ‘scrapping incentive’. This will allow the people to exchange an old fuel-based vehicle while purchasing a new EV, further reducing its cost. The government will also offer low-interest rate loans to people interested in buying commercial EVs. The policy also offers subsidies and road tax and registration fee waivers, for EVs bought in the capital.
Incentives for Adoption of e-Autorickshaws
The policy provides for incentives up to Rs. 30,000 per vehicle-related to the purchase and use of new electric autos. The policy has also made available an open permit system to provide permits on a first-come, first-served basis to those with valid light motor vehicle driving licences and a Public Service Vehicle badge.
A clean environment is a Fundamental right as recognized by the Supreme Court of India under Right to Life. By the adoption of EVs, the people will be able to achieve a clean environment which will go a long way in improving the productivity of the residents of the city. In addition to this, affordable, accessible, inclusive and safe mobility solutions are primary strategic levers for rapid economic development and improving ‘Ease of Living’ of the people.
