Delhi’s EV policy 2.0 aims to replace CNG autos, fossil-fuel vehicles

Delhi is set to ramp up its fight against air pollution with the proposed EV Policy 2.0, which recommends a sweeping transition away from CNG and other fossil fuel vehicles. From banning new CNG auto registrations to mandating electric fleets for public transport and waste collection, the policy outlines a bold roadmap to electrify the capital’s transport system.

The Delhi government’s draft Electric Vehicle (EV) Policy 2.0 recommends the phasing out of CNG-driven and other fossil fuel vehicles to combat air pollution. As per officials, the draft proposes that no new CNG auto-rickshaw registrations will be allowed from August 15, 2024, and existing permits will not be renewed beyond this date. Instead, all such permits will be substituted or re-issued only for electric autos.

Additionally, all CNG auto-rickshaws older than 10 years must be replaced or retrofitted to battery-operated models during the policy period. The policy also targets municipal solid waste vehicles and city buses run on fossil fuels, recommending their phased transition to electric vehicles.

From August 15, 2025, the registration of diesel, petrol, and CNG goods carrier three-wheelers will be prohibited. The policy further proposes a significant move for two-wheelers: banning registration of petrol, diesel, and CNG models from August 15, 2026.

The draft mandates that all garbage collection vehicles owned or leased by the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, New Delhi Municipal Council, and Delhi Jal Board must shift to a 100% electric fleet by December 31, 2027. Public transport buses under DTC and DIMTS must transition to electric vehicles for intra-city operations, with only BS-VI buses allowed for inter-state services.

For private car owners, the draft policy recommends that those owning two vehicles must purchase only electric cars, a clause to take effect once the policy is notified.

Officials noted that the draft may undergo changes during Cabinet approval, especially concerning the two-wheeler provision. The EV Policy 2.0 aims to aggressively replace fossil fuel vehicles to improve Delhi’s air quality.