In recent years, e-rickshaws have gained popularity in Delhi as a cleaner and eco-friendly mode of transport. For their smooth functioning and to ensure safety standards, the Delhi government has outlined certain guidelines. This article delves deep into the license fees, Delhi’s Electric Vehicle Policy of 2020, and other procedural guidelines related to e-rickshaws.
Table of Contents
License Fees for E-Rickshaws in Delhi
The capital’s licensing structure for e-rickshaws is multi-pronged, covering driving licenses, operational permits, and vehicle registration. You need all 3 documents and a Fitness certificate to drive a E-Rickshaw.
- Driving License for E-Rickshaw Operators: Anyone wishing to drive an e-rickshaw in Delhi needs a driving license. The fees for obtaining this license were set at approximately INR 300 for the test of competence to drive. If the applicant already has a driving license for light motor vehicles, they might not need to undergo a fresh test.
- Permit for E-Rickshaw Operation: Besides the driving license, an e-rickshaw owner needs a permit to operate within Delhi. The fees for this permit vary depending on the validity. The permit fee is around INR 2000 for a 2-year period.
- Registration of E-Rickshaw: Good News! As per the Delhi government’s initiative to promote electric vehicles, e-rickshaws have been exempted from registration and license fees in the national capital since 7th August 2020.
Delhi Electric Vehicles Policy, 2020
The Delhi Electric Vehicles Policy was rolled out on 07.08.2020 for three years. It aimed to boost the adoption of e-vehicles, ensuring a cleaner and sustainable environment. It lapsed on 6-08-2023 but was continued till a new Delhi EV Policy 2.0 was brought into effect. It is still pending and under consideration.
Benefits:
- Purchase Incentive: An amount of Rs. 30,000/- is provided to the registered owner for purchasing an E-rickshaw or E-cart.
- Interest Subvention: A 5% subvention on loans or hire purchase schemes is provided for e-rickshaws and e-carts equipped with advanced batteries.
Procedural Guidelines for E-Rickshaws
The Ministry of Road Transport & Highways introduced e-rickshaws as a separate category of transport vehicles.
“E-rickshaw means a special purpose battery operated vehicle having three wheels and constructed or adapted to carry not more than 04 passengers, excluding the driver, and not more than 40 Kilograms luggage in total; the net power of its motor is not more than 2000 Watt and the maximum speed of the vehicle is not more than twenty-five kilometer per hour.”
PROCEDURAL GUIDELINES FOR LICENSING / REGISTRATION / FiTNESS / GRANT OF PERMIT OF E-RICKSHAW
These battery-operated vehicles are designed to accommodate not more than 4 passengers and carry luggage not exceeding 40 kilograms. They are capped at a speed of 25 kilometers per hour.
Documentation & Registration
To ensure transparency and authenticity, specific documents are required for different stages of the e-rickshaw’s life cycle. These stages range from the driver’s PSV badge to the vehicle’s registration and granting of permits.
| Procedure | Required Documents |
|---|---|
| 1. DOCUMENTS REQUIRED FOR ISSUANCE OF PERMIT TO E-RICKSHAW |
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| 2. CERTIFICATE OF FITNESS | The certificate of fitness to E-rickshaws shall be issued in Form-38 as prescribed in Central Motor Vehicles Rule, 1989. |
| 3. Documents required for registration of an E-Rickshaw |
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| 4. ISSUE OF DRIVER’S PUBLIC SERVICE VEHICLE( PSV) BADGE |
|
Challenges in E-Rickshaw Licensing and Regulation in Delhi
Despite the established framework, challenges persist.
- Lack of Awareness: Many are uninformed about licensing requirements.
- Avoidance of Licensing Fee: Some view the fees as an avoidable expense.
- Hassle and Red Tape: The bureaucratic process can be daunting for many.
- Frequent Renewals & Operational Interruptions: Renewals disrupt regular operations, potentially cutting income.
- Complex Procedures: Gathering documents and fulfilling requirements can be tough for many.
- Financial Burden: Renewal fees can strain operators financially.
- Lack of Clarity: Unclear or inconsistent renewal procedures can deter operators from undergoing the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the main fees associated with operating an e-rickshaw in Delhi?
To operate an e-rickshaw in Delhi, one needs to pay for a driving license (around INR 300), an operational permit (approximately INR 2000 for a 2-year period), and a one-time vehicle registration fee (NIL). - Is a fresh driving test mandatory for existing light motor vehicle license holders to drive an e-rickshaw?
No, if the applicant already possesses a driving license for light motor vehicles, they might not require a fresh test to operate an e-rickshaw. - What challenges do e-rickshaw operators face in terms of licensing in Delhi?
Some challenges include a lack of awareness about licensing requirements, the financial burden of fees and renewals, complex procedures, and unclear or inconsistent renewal processes. - Which license is required for an e-rickshaw in Delhi?
An e-rickshaw driver requires a Public Service Vehicle (PSV) Badge along with a valid e-rickshaw driving license. - What is the subsidy for e-rickshaws in Delhi?
Under the Delhi Electric Vehicles Policy, 2020, a purchase incentive of Rs. 30,000/- is provided for e-rickshaws and e-carts.
Conclusion
In the dynamic landscape of Delhi’s transportation sector, e-rickshaws have emerged as a sustainable and efficient mode of travel. The licensing and regulatory framework put in place by the government underscores the commitment to safety, order, and environmental consciousness. By addressing challenges and refining the licensing process, Delhi can further enhance the benefits of e-rickshaws while ensuring the well-being of operators, passengers, and the city’s overall infrastructure.