Delhi's electric tuktuk boom gets a hacking shock

Delhi's iconic auto-rickshaws, a familiar sight and sound in the Indian capital, are facing a significant transformation as the government moves to ban new non-electric models starting January 2027. The ban will extend to new non-electric motorcycles and scooters from April 2028, signaling a phased replacement of over 6 million small vehicles contributing to the city's notorious air pollution. Indrajeet Sachdeva, an auto-rickshaw driver for decades, expressed concern that his career is at risk. He likened the government's policy to "bringing a mongoose to kill a snake. What will we do if the mongoose kills us?" This sentiment is shared by many drivers who fear the financial burden of switching to electric vehicles. "If I buy in this age, I would be tired paying interest on the loan. Either the auto will get old or I will," said Suraj Kumar Gupta, another driver who has been operating since 2002. While the move aims to tackle Delhi's persistent smog, which IQAir ranked as the most polluted urban area globally in 2025, the transition presents economic challenges. "Estimates vary between one-third to 50 per cent [of Delhi's pollution] coming from transport," noted Amit Bhatt, India director at the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT). He added that even Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicles, previously seen as a cleaner alternative, emit nitrogen oxides that contribute to particulate matter. Despite the challenges, the electric rickshaw revolution is already underway, with ICCT researcher Sunitha Anup reporting that around half of India's rickshaws are already electric, a significantly higher percentage than other vehicle classes. This boom is partly supported by imported components adaptable for local manufacturing. However, many drivers like Mr. Sachdeva, who leads a welfare group, are planning legal challenges against the upcoming restrictions, highlighting the tension between environmental goals and the livelihoods of those most affected.

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This policy is like bringing a mongoose to kill a snake. What will we do if the mongoose kills us?