A fresh disagreement has emerged over the future of auto-rickshaws in Delhi-NCR.
The Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA) has asked the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to reconsider the proposed restriction on new CNG-powered three-wheeler registrations. The industry body has also suggested a vehicle replacement programme linked to scrappage of older autos.
The proposal is part of a wider push towards electric mobility across the National Capital Region.
Registration Timeline Proposed By CAQM
| Area | Date |
|---|---|
| Delhi | January 1, 2027 |
| Gurugram, Faridabad, Sonipat, Ghaziabad, Gautam Buddha Nagar | January 1, 2028 |
| Remaining NCR districts | January 1, 2029 |
Under the plan, only electric L5 category three-wheelers would be eligible for fresh registration from the specified dates.
What FADA Has Said
In its communication to CAQM, FADA stated that the proposal may not immediately reduce the number of older autos operating on roads.
Many BS-IV and older vehicles will continue running as long as their permits remain valid. Dealers say this could delay replacement of ageing vehicles with cleaner BS-VI CNG models.
The association has also referred to the people connected with the segment.
Some of the concerns raised include:
- Auto-rickshaw owners dependent on daily earnings
- Dealership staff working in the three-wheeler business
- Vehicle financiers associated with the segment
- Fleet operators running passenger services
According to the association, Delhi’s auto-rickshaw network remains an important mode of transport for daily commuters.
Scrappage Scheme Suggested
FADA has proposed a different route.
It has recommended faster retirement of older three-wheelers through an incentive-based scrappage programme. Owners could then move either to BS-VI CNG models or electric vehicles.
The association believes this would help replace older vehicles sooner while allowing operators to upgrade their fleets in a more practical manner.
Policy Discussions Continue
The matter comes at a time when authorities are working on the next phase of Delhi’s EV roadmap. Several proposals related to vehicle electrification are currently under discussion.
For now, the industry’s feedback has been placed before regulators. Whether any changes are made to the final policy will become clear once consultations are completed.