Maximum 4 passengers, speed capped at 25 kmph: Delhi proposes new e-rickshaw rules

The Delhi government has proposed limiting the number of passengers in e-rickshaws to four, a move that could affect the practice of transporting seven to eight schoolchildren in a single vehicle.The proposal is part of the draft Delhi E-Rickshaw (Registration and Operation) Scheme, 2026, which seeks to regulate the number of passengers, driver eligibility, vehicle speed, registration and safety standards. The government has invited public suggestions and objections to the draft within 30 days. The proposed rules are not yet in force.Under the draft, an e-rickshaw would be allowed to carry a maximum of four passengers besides the driver. Carrying a passenger beside the driver or allowing anyone to travel while standing would also be prohibited. If implemented, the passenger limit could require drivers, parents and schools to reconsider arrangements for transporting children.The draft also proposes capping the maximum speed of e-rickshaws at 25 kmph and limiting motor power to 2,000 watts. DRIVING LICENCE, PSV BADGE PROPOSED AS MANDATORYThe proposed scheme seeks to make a valid driving licence and a Public Service Vehicle (PSV) badge mandatory for e-rickshaw drivers. The move is aimed at ensuring that vehicles are operated by drivers who meet the prescribed eligibility requirements.The draft also proposes limiting the total number of e-rickshaws in Delhi to 2.5 lakh. An individual would be allowed to own a maximum of five e-rickshaws, while eligible organisations could own up to 100. Each e-rickshaw would also require a digital E-Rickshaw Compliance Certificate (ECC), with a proposed validity of two years. Existing vehicles would be given 90 days from the notification of the scheme to comply with the new requirements.SAFETY AND PARKING RULESThe draft includes provisions requiring e-rickshaws to carry first-aid kits and drivers to assist elderly and disabled passengers while boarding and alighting. Drivers would also be required to inform the police in cases of harassment or misconduct involving women passengers.Driving under the influence of alcohol and using audio that distracts the driver would be prohibited under the proposed rules.E-rickshaws would not be permitted to operate on notified restricted roads. Parking that obstructs traffic or pedestrians would also invite action. The scheme further proposes requiring vehicle owners to display their name, address and phone number on their e-rickshaws.The draft provides for the seizure of vehicles operating without the required registration or approval, as well as their disposal in specified circumstances. It also stresses the safe disposal of batteries through authorised recyclers.PUBLIC SUGGESTIONS INVITEDThe Delhi government has invited suggestions and objections from members of the public and other stakeholders within 30 days. The provisions may be revised after the feedback is considered.The final government notification will clarify the penalties for overloading, the circumstances in which an e-rickshaw can be seized and the consequences of other violations.E-rickshaws are widely used in Delhi for short-distance travel and last-mile connectivity to Metro stations. However, carrying more passengers than permitted raises safety concerns, particularly when schoolchildren are transported together in a single vehicle.If the proposed passenger limit is implemented, it could affect existing school transport arrangements and require parents, schools and e-rickshaw operators to explore alternatives.- Ends