Delhi to host e-vehicle parade in October

Delhi’s environment department is set to organise an ‘e-vehicle parade’ at Rajghat Delhi in early October to promote the purchase and use of electric vehicles (EVs) in the city.

Officials expect more than 500 EVs to participate, with a registration link for interested owners to be shared soon.

According to a senior environment department official, a tender has been issued for the event, with an estimated cost of around Rs 5.76 lakh. Bids will be accepted until September 30, and the parade will take place within five days of awarding the tender.

“The goal is to promote EV usage in Delhi and raise awareness about their advantages. We encourage maximum participation from EV owners,” the official stated.

“Switching to electric vehicles will help reduce vehicular pollution in the city,” the official added.

Environment Minister Gopal Rai, who recently returned to his role after the formation of a new cabinet, stressed that the government’s priority in the coming months will be tackling air pollution.

“Our main challenge during winter is lowering pollution levels. We have already conducted meetings with 33 departments to plan strategies,” Rai said.

“Today, I will meet with the chief secretary to discuss additional suggestions. The Winter Action Plan is prepared and will be launched on September 25 instead of the 27th due to the Assembly session,” Rai added.

Rai expressed optimism that joint efforts could lead to a significant reduction in pollution throughout the year, with a particular focus on winter months.

In August 2020, the Delhi government launched an EV Policy offering subsidies to EV buyers, with a target of making one in every four newly registered vehicles in the capital electric by 2024.

(With inputs from PTI)