The Delhi government has introduced a draft policy that aims to regulate the operation of e-rickshaws in the capital. This initiative proposes a cap of 2.5 lakh e-rickshaws, limiting individual ownership to five vehicles per person. The draft policy, titled the Delhi E-Rickshaw (Registration and Operation) Scheme, 2026, was made public on Sunday and invites feedback from citizens and stakeholders over the next 30 days.

Under this proposed scheme, fleet operators with 25 or more vehicles would be required to obtain aggregator licences, and stricter penalties for violations are also suggested. The policy aims to address concerns regarding traffic congestion, road safety, and pollution, which have been exacerbated by the unregulated growth of e-rickshaws in the city.

The draft specifies that no new compliance certificates will be issued beyond the proposed cap unless the government revises it. Existing e-rickshaws will have a 90-day period to regularise their compliance with the new regulations.

Ownership and Compliance Requirements

The draft policy outlines specific ownership restrictions. Individual owners must be residents of Delhi and are limited to owning a maximum of five e-rickshaws. In contrast, companies and other entities will have a separate ceiling of 100 vehicles. Fleet operators managing 25 or more e-rickshaws must secure an aggregator licence to comply with the new regulations.

To operate legally, each e-rickshaw must possess a valid E-Rickshaw Compliance Certificate (ECC) linked to its registration and owner. This certificate will require documentation, including a fitness certificate and insurance, and will remain valid for two years unless suspended or cancelled. Existing registered e-rickshaw owners will have 90 days from the notification of the scheme to obtain the necessary certificate.

Drivers will also need to hold a valid e-rickshaw driving licence and a Public Service Vehicle (PSV) badge, with restrictions preventing a single licence from being linked to multiple ECCs simultaneously. The draft policy further introduces provisions regarding battery safety and environmental compliance, mandating that e-rickshaws adhere to specified battery standards.

Road Safety and Passenger Regulations

Road safety and traffic management are key components of the proposed policy. E-rickshaws will be required to follow designated road restrictions, park responsibly without obstructing traffic, and display the owner’s contact details prominently. Additionally, vehicles must carry high-security registration plates and reflective markings. The use of bull bars and frontal crash guards will be prohibited.

Regarding passenger transport, the draft stipulates a maximum capacity of four passengers, excluding the driver, and limits luggage to 40 kg. Standing passengers and those occupying the driver’s seat will not be allowed. Drivers are also expected to assist elderly and disabled passengers and report any incidents of harassment involving women passengers to the authorities.

To enforce compliance, the draft outlines severe penalties for violations, including the impounding of vehicles operating without the required registration or compliance certification. Vehicles that are found unregistered after the notification of the scheme will be immediately impounded, and unregistered e-rickshaws will not be released under any circumstances. The policy also includes provisions for the crushing and auctioning of certain impounded vehicles, ensuring that the battery of an unregistered e-rickshaw will not be released and will also be auctioned.

The Transport Department is actively seeking public comments on the draft policy within 30 days of its publication, aiming to gather diverse perspectives on the proposed regulations.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store – https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share