Delhi’s proposed e-rickshaw policy seeks to cap the number of vehicles in the capital at 2.5 lakh and introduce mandatory digital compliance certificates, ownership limits, fleet licensing and stricter safety requirements. The draft policy has been released for public and stakeholder feedback over the next 30 days.
The proposed Delhi E-Rickshaw (Registration and Operations) Scheme, 2026 would limit the number of valid e-rickshaw compliance certificates (ECCs) across the city to 2.5 lakh. Once that limit is reached, no new registration or ECC would be issued until the government changes the cap. The draft cites traffic congestion, road-safety concerns, air and noise pollution, and the uncontrolled growth in e-rickshaws as reasons for the proposed ceiling.
Existing e-rickshaw owners would receive 90 days from the notification of the scheme to regularise their vehicles and obtain the required compliance certificate. Registration alone would not be sufficient to operate an e-rickshaw under the proposed framework. Each vehicle would need a valid ECC linked to its registration, owner, authorised driver and documents including a fitness certificate and insurance.
The ECC would remain valid for two years, although it could be suspended or cancelled. Drivers would also be required to hold a valid licence for operating an e-rickshaw and a public service vehicle badge. The draft proposes that an e-rickshaw cannot operate unless it is registered under Section 39 of the relevant Act and holds a valid ECC under the scheme.
The policy would also restrict ownership. An individual owner would have to be a Delhi resident and would not be permitted to own more than five e-rickshaws under the scheme. Companies, firms, cooperatives and other authorised entities would face a separate limit of 100 vehicles. Operators running 25 or more e-rickshaws would be required to obtain an aggregator licence.
Passenger capacity and cargo limits have also been specified. An e-rickshaw would be permitted to carry a maximum of four passengers, excluding the driver, and up to 40 kilograms of goods. Standing travel and sitting on the driver’s seat would not be allowed. Drivers would be required to assist elderly and disabled passengers.
The draft includes provisions on battery safety and waste management. Vehicles seeking registration and an ECC would have to use battery technology notified by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways from time to time. Used batteries would have to be handed over only to authorised recyclers.
Traffic management requirements would include parking vehicles without obstructing traffic or pedestrians, displaying the owner’s contact details, and using prescribed reflective markings and high-security registration plates. The installation of bull bars and frontal crash guards would be prohibited. The draft also proposes strict action for violations. Public feedback and stakeholder suggestions will be accepted during the 30-day consultation period.
