The Chief Minister of Delhi, Arvind Kejriwal has recently approved the Delhi Motor Vehicle Aggregator and Delivery Service Provider Scheme 2023.
The scheme focusses on setting clear guidelines for the transition to electric vehicles and improve service and safety quality.
The policy envisions by 2030, the entire fleet of all aggregators in Delhi to go electric. Existing and new Operators will need to obtain a license within 90 days of the scheme’s notification, failing to adhere could lead to stringent monetary penalties for violations, ranging from Rs 5,000 to Rs 100,000 per instance.
The scheme sets the stage for comprehensive regulation and licensing of aggregators providing passenger transport services and delivery service providers offering their services in the city.
Kailash Gahlot, Transport Minister of Delhi said, “It is the first time in India that any Aggregator scheme has defined targets for them to convert their fleet into electric vehicles, promoting green and sustainable mobility in the city. The scheme signifies a notable step in the direction of achieving clean and efficient transportation in Delhi, with the objective of addressing pollution and enhancing air quality. By laying down clear guidelines for the transition to electric vehicles and setting high standards for service quality and public safety, this scheme is poised to usher in a new era of transportation services in Delhi.”
The scheme mandates service providers to ensure a phased conversion to electric mobility to reduce air pollution and enhance green mobility. The entire fleet of all the aggregators in Delhi will go electric by 2030.
In a relief to the likes of Rapido, Ola and Uber, the Delhi Government has allowed them to operate electric vehicle-only bike taxi services, with operational guidelines outlined in the scheme.
The operators will need to adhere to strict standards in terms of service quality including –vehicle cleanliness, driver behaviour, and timely resolution of customer complaints.
The scheme applies to aggregators, delivery service providers, or e-commerce entities operating within the National Capital Territory of Delhi.
It will cover those with 25 or more motor vehicles (two-, three-, and four-wheeler, excluding buses) in their fleet, who use a digital intermediary such as an app or web portal to connect with consumers for their services.
To ensure proper compliance, all existing or new operators will need to obtain a license within 90 days of the scheme’s notification or before commencing operations.
The licenses will be valid for 5-years, with annual fees applicable, and zero fees in case of electric vehicles. Additionally, a 50 percent rebate is provided for vehicles that are less than two years old.
