Passengers using e-rickshaws in New Delhi will soon have to pay more, as operators plan to increase the minimum fare to Rs 20 starting next month.
The decision has been taken by the federation of electric vehicle operators, citing rising inflation and the fact that fares have remained unchanged since services began around 2010.
According to federation chairman Anuj Sharma, while auto-rickshaw and taxi fares have been revised multiple times over the years, e-rickshaw rates have not seen any increase, making the hike necessary to sustain operations.
The proposal was discussed in a joint meeting involving drivers, dealers, manufacturers, and Delhi Transport Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh.
Currently, more than 2 lakh e-rickshaws are officially registered in Delhi, with an additional 1.5 lakh estimated to be operating without registration. These vehicles play a crucial role in providing last-mile connectivity across the city.
At present, most e-rickshaw rides cost around Rs 10 for the first two kilometres and Rs 5 for each additional kilometre. The proposed revision is expected to standardise and increase base fares.
Meanwhile, the Delhi government has withdrawn a 2022 policy that allowed companies to register multiple e-rickshaws under a single entity. Officials said the move aims to prevent monopolisation and promote self-employment by ensuring ownership remains with individual drivers.
Authorities believe the decision will create more economic opportunities, reduce exploitation, and strengthen the role of e-rickshaws as a key component of urban transport in the capital.