Delhi caps e-rickshaw fleet at 2.5 lakh under new regulatory scheme

Delhi authorities have proposed a stringent cap on e-rickshaw numbers as part of the Delhi E-Rickshaw (Registration and Operation) Scheme, 2026, released for public consultation on Sunday. The draft regulation restricts the city-wide fleet to 2.5 lakh vehicles, with no additional registrations permitted beyond this limit unless the cap is formally revised by the government.

The regulatory framework responds to growing concerns about uncontrolled expansion of the three-wheeler segment. Officials cited traffic congestion, road safety hazards, and escalating air and noise pollution as key reasons for imposing the restriction. The measure represents a significant shift in managing the rapid proliferation of electric three-wheelers that have dominated last-mile connectivity in Delhi's urban landscape.

The draft scheme defines e-rickshaws as battery-operated three-wheelers with capacity for up to four passengers excluding the driver, equipped with 40 kg luggage space, a maximum power output of 2,000 watts, and a top speed of 25 kilometers per hour. The proposed regulations will undergo a 30-day public feedback period before the government finalises the scheme.

Stakeholders including operators, commuters and transport advocacy groups have been invited to submit suggestions to refine the framework. The consultation phase represents Delhi's attempt to balance the growing demand for affordable public transport with environmental and safety considerations facing the congested metropolis.