As Delhi is stuck between hazardous AQI and a new EV policy, debates intensify over charging gaps, supply constraints and infrastructure hurdles that could slow the capital’s clean-mobility ambitions.
Delhi’s push to update its electric vehicle (EV) policy has intensified industry debate over whether the city’s infrastructure is equipped to support a large-scale transition from internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.
A new draft policy, now awaiting ministerial clearance, proposes expanding the charging network, setting up more battery-swapping points, boosting recycling capacity and widening the e-rickshaw ecosystem.
The government aims to accelerate the shift in the capital toward clean mobility and reinforce its status as an early EV adopter. Meanwhile, Delhi has now logged over 18 consecutive days with AQI at or above 300 (falling in the ‘very poor’ category), with several days nearing or breaching 400.
Experts warn that these ambitions depend on resolving critical infrastructure and supply constraints. Experts say Delhi faces the same hurdles as other major cities, citing electricity shortages, grid limits, inadequate charging points and raw-material constraints, with supply chains still under strain.
Delhi’s previous EV policy, launched in 2020, triggered rapid growth in electric mobility and charging stations before expiring in August 2023. The framework has since been extended multiple times and now remains effective until March 2026 as officials finalise the updated roadmap.
Government data shows that, as of August 2025, the city hosts 1967 charging stations, though experts agree the network must expand substantially to meet rising demand.
A Delhi-based industry expert said the capital has been ‘aggressively pushing for electrification,’ adding that recycling will become increasingly important as battery volumes scale. Startups are already entering the recycling space despite the current limited demand.
Meanwhile, civic agencies continue pollution-control efforts across the city. Officials confirmed that anti-smog guns have been installed on 149 buildings, including hospitals, malls and court complexes, ahead of the November 29 compliance deadline.
