New Delhi: The Delhi government has announced the formation of a 10-member committee, composed of officials and industry experts, tasked with drafting a revised electric vehicle (EV) policy. This initiative was confirmed by government officials on Friday.
The committee will operate under a comprehensive 12-point agenda that addresses critical aspects of the EV transition. Key focus areas include the conversion of all CNG vehicles to electric, the establishment of charging facilities beneath flyovers, the management of battery waste, enhancing last-mile connectivity, and the efficient disbursement of subsidies.
“To facilitate a smooth transition from CNG to electric vehicles, the committee will conduct a scientific study to assess the current number of CNG vehicles in use across Delhi. This study will inform a practical plan for replacing these vehicles with EVs, with a target start date of April 1, 2026,” stated a government document.
The expert committee is also expected to provide recommendations on the installation of EV charging stations under flyovers and to set specific year-by-year targets for the establishment of private and semi-public charging facilities.
“In light of the anticipated surge in EV adoption among the public, a strategic plan must be developed to clarify land allocation and address the needs of the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi. This plan will be integral to the revised policy,” the document further elaborated.
The committee includes notable experts such as K. Ramachandra Rao, a professor in the Department of Civil Engineering and Head of the Transportation Research and Injury Prevention Centre (TRIPC) at IIT Delhi; Sudhendu Jyoti Sinha, an advisor at NITI Aayog and Managing Director of the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC); senior officials from the transport department; representatives from power distribution companies; and other specialists.
“The committee is tasked with a comprehensive examination of the delays in subsidy disbursement under the current policy. It will also objectively assess the number of women beneficiaries and the amount of subsidy allocated to them,” states the government document.
Launched in August 2020 as a flagship initiative of the previous Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government, this policy aims to combat vehicular pollution and promote the adoption of electric vehicles, targeting a 25 percent adoption rate by 2024. Although the initial three-year term concluded in August 2023, the government has opted to extend the policy.
To enhance last-mile connectivity in densely populated unauthorized areas, the committee has been instructed to explore the deployment of mini-cabs and e-rickshaws for public convenience.
“The committee will recommend specific routes for which permits can be issued, as well as the maximum number of e-auto rickshaws and maxi cabs permitted to operate on these roads. Additionally, it will identify suitable locations for public charging infrastructure in these areas,” the document further elaborates.
The committee is required to submit progress reports to Transport Minister Pankaj Singh every two weeks, ensuring ongoing oversight and accountability.
