Politics · India Bureau
Telangana rolls out ₹200 crore auto-to-EV conversion scheme
The Telangana government has launched an ambitious initiative to convert autorickshaws to electric vehicles, with the state bearing the full conversion cost of ₹1.5 lakh per vehicle. The move has drawn support from autorickshaw unions across the state.
LSN India ·
Telangana has unveiled a ₹200 crore scheme aimed at accelerating the transition of auto-rickshaws to electric powertrains, marking a significant step toward reducing vehicular emissions in the state's transport sector. Under the initiative, the government will fully subsidize the conversion process, covering the ₹1.5 lakh cost per autorickshaw.
Autorickshaw unions have welcomed the announcement, viewing it as a pragmatic approach to modernizing the state's iconic three-wheeler fleet while supporting livelihoods. The scheme addresses financial barriers that have historically prevented operators from switching to cleaner technologies, a challenge that has plagued similar initiatives across India.
The conversion program is expected to benefit thousands of autorickshaw operators across Telangana's urban and semi-urban centers. By subsidizing conversions rather than vehicle replacements, the government aims to make the transition economically viable for operators who rely on their vehicles for daily income.
The initiative reflects broader efforts across Indian cities to reduce air pollution and meet climate commitments. Electric autorickshaws have gained traction in several major metropolitan areas, though cost remains a significant adoption barrier in smaller cities and towns where the three-wheeler remains the primary public transport mode.