Delhi government proposes cap of 250,000 e-rickshaws

The Delhi government has released a draft E-Rickshaw (Registration and Operation) Scheme, 2026, for a 30-day public consultation period. The proposed policy seeks to cap the number of e-rickshaws in the capital at 2.5 lakh to address traffic congestion, road safety, and pollution.

Under the draft framework, e-rickshaws must be registered as transport vehicles and hold a valid E-Rickshaw Compliance Certificate (ECC). The policy defines an e-rickshaw as a battery-operated three-wheeler with a maximum speed of 25 kmph, a net power output not exceeding 2,000 watts, and a seating capacity for up to four passengers excluding the driver.

Transport Minister Pankaj Singh stated that the initiative aims to ensure systematic operations and reliable last-mile connectivity. The government intends to prohibit vehicles that do not meet safety standards, specifically targeting those constructed using unsafe ‘jugaad’ techniques. Implementation is expected to begin within 90 days following the finalization of the policy.