Draft EV Policy 2.0 proposes phasing out CNG autorickshaws in Delhi

The Delhi government’s forthcoming Electric Vehicle (EV) Policy 2.0 recommends a complete phase-out of CNG-powered autorickshaws in the capital, according to officials familiar with the matter.

As per the draft policy, the registration of new CNG autorickshaws will be disallowed from 15 August 2025. In addition, the renewal of existing CNG auto permits will cease from the same date. These permits will instead be replaced or reissued exclusively with electric autorickshaw permits.

The draft also targets other fossil fuel-driven vehicles, proposing the phase-out of solid waste carriers used by civic bodies and city buses powered by non-electric fuels.

CNG autorickshaws older than 10 years will be required to either convert to battery-operated systems or be replaced entirely during the policy’s tenure.

A significant clause in the draft states that two-wheelers powered by petrol, diesel, or CNG will no longer be permitted from 15 August 2026. Additionally, from 15 August 2025, the registration of diesel, petrol, or CNG-powered three-wheelers used for goods transport will also be barred.

The policy mandates that all garbage collection vehicles owned or leased by the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC), and Delhi Jal Board must transition to electric variants in a phased manner, achieving a 100% electric fleet by 31 December 2027.

In terms of public transportation, the draft requires Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) and Delhi Integrated Multi-Modal Transit System (DIMTS) to procure only electric buses for intra-city operations. Buses for inter-state travel must comply with BS VI norms from the onset of the policy.

Private vehicle ownership will also see new regulations. As per the proposal, individuals who already own two vehicles will only be allowed to purchase an electric car moving forward. This condition will come into effect following the official notification of the policy.

Officials noted that the draft is still under review and may be subject to change, especially the provisions concerning two-wheelers, before receiving Cabinet approval.

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The Delhi government recently extended the existing EV policy for an additional 15 days after it lapsed on 31 March, marking what is likely to be its final extension. The new policy aims to significantly curb air pollution by replacing a large number of fossil fuel-based vehicles across the city, officials added.