Telangana autorickshaw drivers react to EV subsidies and new transport plans

The Telangana government has approved a financial assistance scheme to help convert 18,766 petrol and diesel autorickshaws into electric vehicles (EVs) in the Core Urban Region (CURE). Eligible owners can receive up to ₹1.5 lakh for retrofitting existing vehicles or purchasing new e-vehicles. Drivers have welcomed the move, noting it will reduce pollution and lower operational costs.

However, the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation’s (TGSRTC) separate proposal to introduce its own e-autorickshaws for last-mile connectivity has met opposition from auto drivers' unions and gig worker groups. Unions argue the plan threatens their livelihoods, especially following the Mahalakshmi scheme which provides free bus travel for women. Critics also pointed to the failure of previous TGSRTC mini-bus services, noting that approximately 60 Vajra mini-buses are currently out of operation due to technical issues.