The government of Delhi has announced a phased plan to ban petrol-powered scooters, motorbikes, and autorickshaws in favor of electric alternatives as part of efforts to reduce air pollution in the city by the end of the decade. The move targets one of the largest sources of pollution in India’s capital, where transport emissions are linked to tens of thousands of premature deaths annually.

Vehicles such as petrol scooters and three-wheelers, which mainly run on petrol and compressed fossil gas, make up more than two-thirds of the tens of millions of vehicles on Delhi’s roads. Their widespread use has been a significant factor in the city’s persistent air quality challenges.

Under the new policy, Delhi will restrict the issuance of new license plates for small trucks and three-wheeled vehicles—commonly known as autorickshaws—to electric models starting in 2027. A year later, in 2028, the city will extend this restriction to electric scooters and motorbikes, effectively curtailing the registration of new petrol-powered two-wheelers thereafter.

Authorities have emphasized that the transition to electric vehicles, including e-rickshaws and e-scooters, is expected to help curb emissions and improve public health outcomes. The plan aligns with broader national and regional efforts to promote cleaner transportation technologies amid growing concerns over urban air pollution.

The government has not yet detailed specific measures regarding the existing fleet of petrol vehicles or timelines for a complete phase-out. Nonetheless, the announcement marks a significant policy shift toward electrification in one of India’s most polluted metropolitan areas, highlighting the increasing role of sustainable transport solutions in urban planning.