Delhi Auto Drivers Urge Infrastructure First for Electric Vehicle Transition

Twenty-five years after Delhi embraced compressed natural gas (CNG) for its auto-rickshaws, drivers who navigated the complexities of that transition are bracing for another major shift: electric vehicles.

The move to CNG in the late 1990s was a monumental change for the city's iconic three-wheelers. Drivers remember the significant hurdles they faced, including extensive queues at refueling stations and persistent fuel shortages. These experiences have left a lasting impression, shaping their views on the upcoming electric mobility push.

As Delhi prepares for its most ambitious electric vehicle initiative since the CNG revolution, the city's auto drivers are vocal about their concerns. They emphasize that the authorities have a critical opportunity to learn from the past. Their primary demand is for the city to build the necessary charging and refueling infrastructure *before* the transition gains momentum. They fear a repeat of the past disruptions if the infrastructure lags behind the mandate.

This proactive approach, they argue, is essential to ensure a smoother and more efficient transition for both drivers and the city's transportation system. The drivers' message is clear: learn from history and build the infrastructure first to avoid repeating the challenges of the CNG era.

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the city has one chance to avoid repeating history: build the infrastructure before the transition gathers speed.