Delhi pushes electric rickshaws to curb smog, sparking driver backlash

Delhi’s government has set a timetable to phase out new non-electric three-wheelers by January 2027 and to extend the prohibition to motorcycles and scooters from April 2028, aiming to reduce the city’s chronic smog. Veteran driver Indrajeet Sachdeva, who heads a rickshaw drivers’ welfare association, says the policy could jeopardize earnings and intends to file a legal challenge before the January deadline. Although about 50 % of the nation’s rickshaws are already electric, many drivers still rely on CNG models, believing them cleaner than petrol.

Recent videos showed electric rickshaws being disabled remotely via unsecured Bluetooth connections, prompting the government to order the removal of certain battery-management apps. Experts warn that the lack of cybersecurity standards and scarce charging stations could hinder the transition, with most drivers lacking home-charging space. The chief minister’s office has not commented on the plan.