Delhi to Phase Out CNG Auto Rickshaws: EV Policy 2.0 Draft Unveiled, Will CNG Autos Be History?

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Delhi's roads may soon be free from CNG-powered auto rickshaws as the Delhi government's draft EV Policy 2.0 recommends phasing them out. The policy aims to reduce air pollution in the city by promoting electric vehicles.

Key Highlights of the Draft EV Policy

- No New CNG Auto Rickshaw Registrations: From August 15, 2025, no new CNG auto rickshaws will be registered in Delhi.

- CNG Auto Permit Renewal: CNG auto permits won't be renewed from August 15, 2025 and will be replaced with electric auto permits.

- Conversion of Old CNG Autos: CNG auto rickshaws older than 10 years must be converted to electric vehicles.

- Ban on Fossil Fuel Two-Wheelers: Petrol, diesel and CNG two-wheelers won't be allowed from August 15, 2026.

- Electric Buses: Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) and Delhi Integrated Multi-Modal Transit System (DIMTS) will only procure electric buses for intra-city operations.

Other Recommendations

- Garbage Collection Vehicles: All garbage collection vehicles will be converted to electric vehicles by December 31, 2027.

- Private Car Owners: If a private car owner already has two vehicles, any further purchase must be an electric vehicle.

- Three-Wheeler Cargo Vehicles: Registration of diesel, petrol and CNG three-wheeler cargo vehicles won't be allowed from August 15, 2025.

Delhi Government's Stance

Delhi Transport Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh has clarified that while the government aims to promote electric vehicles, public convenience won't be compromised. CNG auto rickshaws won't be stopped immediately.