Bike Taxi Group Writes To Delhi LG Seeking More Time To Make EV Shift

News: Expressing their concerns about the newly announced “Motor Vehicle Aggregator and Delivery Service Provider Scheme 2023,” bike taxi drivers in Delhi have written a letter to Lieutenant Governor Vijay Saxena. The scheme, scheduled for implementation next week, permits bike taxi aggregators to operate within the city limits, provided they exclusively utilize electric vehicles.

Request for Extension

The Apna Bike Taxi Association, which speaks for 1,000 bike taxi drivers, is urging for additional time to adhere to the new policy. They seek an extension of up to two years to facilitate a smoother transition to electric cars. Arendar Singh, the head of the association, highlights the city’s insufficient infrastructure for electric two-wheelers, emphasizing that these vehicles are both expensive and of subpar quality.

Concerns Raised

Arguing that an abrupt transition to electric bikes overnight is impractical and jeopardizes the livelihoods of over 50,000 bike taxi drivers in the city, the association has raised valid concerns. They emphasize the lack of funding or assistance provided in the scheme to support this significant transition.

New Policy Requirements

Under the new policy, bike taxi drivers are mandated to adhere to the regulations outlined for drivers of passenger service vehicles in the Central Motor Vehicles Act, Central Motor Vehicles Rules, and Delhi Motor Vehicles Rules. Furthermore, any bike taxi aggregator adding vehicles to its fleet post the launch date is obligated to ensure that these additional vehicles are electric.

Government Consideration

In light of the concerns voiced by the Apna Bike Taxi Association, it is crucial for the government to carefully assess the practicality of the policy and extend the necessary support for bike taxi drivers to transition to electric vehicles. Improving the infrastructure for electric two-wheelers is imperative, and financial assistance should be made available to facilitate a seamless transition for drivers.

In summary, the bike taxi drivers in Delhi have communicated their apprehensions to the Lieutenant Governor, seeking additional time to adhere to the new policy mandating the exclusive use of electric vehicles. The raised concerns regarding infrastructure and financial support merit serious consideration by the government. It is essential to ensure a well-managed transition for the bike taxi industry while promoting sustainable transportation practices.

FAQs

Q: Why are bike taxi drivers requesting more time to comply with the new policy?

A: Bike taxi drivers are requesting more time because they believe that the sudden switch to electric vehicles is impractical and poses a risk to their livelihoods. They argue that the city lacks a strong infrastructure for electric two-wheelers, and these vehicles are also expensive and of poor quality.

Q: What are the requirements of the new policy for bike taxi drivers?

A: The new policy requires bike taxi drivers to comply with the regulations set for drivers of passenger service vehicles in various motor vehicles acts and rules. Additionally, any bike taxi aggregator that adds vehicles to its fleet after the launch date must ensure that these vehicles are electric.

Q: What support should the government provide to bike taxi drivers during the transition to electric vehicles?

A: The government should improve the infrastructure for electric two-wheelers and provide financial assistance to help bike taxi drivers make a smooth transition to electric vehicles. This support is essential to ensure the feasibility of the policy and the sustainability of the bike taxi industry.