Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal approved an aggregator policy emphasizing passenger safety.
Delhi’s Chief Minister, Arvind Kejriwal, has given the green light to a policy for transport aggregators, emphasizing increased safety features for riders. This includes a round-the-clock control room to oversee drivers and emergency buttons linked to law enforcement agencies. The directive mandates that all transport aggregators, established or newcomers, shift to electric vehicles by April 1, 2030. The policy also legalizes bike taxis in Delhi, setting specific guidelines and licensing criteria. Applicable to operators with a fleet of 25 or more vehicles, the policy enforces penalties for violations. Furthermore, it mandates provisions for cars accessible to those with disabilities and an option for real-time ride tracking.
Key features include a 24×7 control room to monitor driver movements, panic button integration with enforcement agencies, and corrective actions for drivers rated below three stars in over 25% of monthly rides.
The Delhi Motor Vehicle Aggregator and Delivery Service Provider Scheme 2023 awaits the Lieutenant Governor’s approval. Once sanctioned, it will mandate a complete transition of aggregator fleets to electric vehicles (EVs) by 2030. The policy also introduces legal guidelines for bike taxis in Delhi.
Electric bike taxis require specific registration, insurance for passengers and drivers, and a passenger service vehicle badge from the transport department. The policy mandates a phased transition to EVs for four-wheeler fleets: 5% in six months, 50% in three years, and 100% in five years. Delhi is pioneering India by setting a deadline for commercial vehicle fleets of aggregators, delivery services, and e-commerce platforms to adopt EVs. “This initiative not only protects our environment but also enhances Delhi citizens’ well-being,” remarked Delhi’s transport minister, Kailash Gahlot.
The scheme targets operators with 25 or more vehicles, excluding buses, using digital platforms to connect with consumers. Operators must acquire a license within 90 days post-notification. Licenses last five years, with an annual fee. However, EVs receive an exemption, and vehicles under two years old get a 50% fee rebate.
Strict provisions ensure compliance, with penalties ranging from Rs 5,000 to Rs 100,000 per violation. The policy mandates accessible vehicles for the disabled and features for riders to share live locations. Aggregators must also include an emergency number on their apps for reporting concerns during rides.
