The Delhi government has announced a proposal to restrict the number of passengers in e-rickshaws to four, a change that could significantly impact current practices where seven to eight schoolchildren are often transported in a single vehicle. This proposal is part of the draft Delhi E-Rickshaw (Registration and Operation) Scheme, 2026, which aims to establish regulations regarding passenger capacity, driver qualifications, vehicle speed, registration, and safety measures.

Under the proposed regulations, e-rickshaws would be permitted to carry a maximum of four passengers in addition to the driver. The draft also specifies that no passenger should be allowed to sit beside the driver or stand while the vehicle is in motion. If these regulations are enacted, they may necessitate a reevaluation of transportation arrangements for children by drivers, parents, and schools alike.

Additionally, the draft proposes a maximum speed limit of 25 kmph for e-rickshaws, along with a restriction on motor power to 2,000 watts. These measures are intended to enhance safety for both passengers and drivers.

Driver Requirements and E-Rickshaw Ownership Limits

The draft scheme also introduces mandatory requirements for e-rickshaw drivers, stipulating that they must possess a valid driving licence and a Public Service Vehicle (PSV) badge. This initiative aims to ensure that e-rickshaws are operated by qualified individuals who meet the necessary criteria.

Furthermore, the proposal seeks to limit the total number of e-rickshaws in Delhi to 2.5 lakh. Individual owners would be restricted to a maximum of five e-rickshaws, while eligible organisations could own up to 100. Each e-rickshaw would also be required to obtain a digital E-Rickshaw Compliance Certificate (ECC), which would be valid for two years. Existing vehicles would have a grace period of 90 days from the notification of the scheme to comply with these new regulations.

In addition to these requirements, the draft includes provisions for safety measures, such as mandating that e-rickshaws carry first-aid kits and that drivers assist elderly and disabled passengers while boarding and alighting. Drivers would also be obliged to report any incidents of harassment or misconduct involving women passengers to the police.

Safety Measures and Public Feedback

The draft regulations prohibit driving under the influence of alcohol and the use of distracting audio devices while operating an e-rickshaw. E-rickshaws will not be allowed to operate on designated restricted roads, and parking that obstructs traffic or pedestrians will face penalties. Additionally, vehicle owners must display their name, address, and contact number on their e-rickshaws.

To ensure compliance, the draft outlines the potential seizure of vehicles operating without the necessary registration or approval, along with the conditions under which such vehicles may be disposed of. It also emphasises the importance of safely disposing of batteries through authorised recyclers.

The Delhi government has opened a window for public suggestions and objections regarding the draft, allowing stakeholders to submit their feedback within 30 days. This feedback may lead to revisions in the proposed regulations. The final notification will clarify penalties for overloading, the circumstances under which an e-rickshaw can be seized, and the consequences of various violations.

E-rickshaws are a popular mode of transport in Delhi, particularly for short-distance travel and last-mile connectivity to Metro stations. However, the practice of carrying more passengers than allowed raises safety concerns, especially when it involves transporting schoolchildren. Should the proposed passenger limit be enforced, it could necessitate significant changes in existing school transport arrangements, prompting parents, schools, and e-rickshaw operators to explore alternative solutions.

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