New Delhi: Aiming to reduce pollution levels through seamless adoption of electric vehicles, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said on Saturday that the government has prepared a comprehensive framework for an Electric Vehicle (EV) Policy, which is likely to be implemented from the next financial year.
Gupta said that the EV Policy will play an effective role in controlling pollution in the Capital as emissions from vehicles are a major contributor to air pollution.
She said the policy is not merely about providing financial incentives, but about securing a clean future for Delhi.
“When every citizen adopts EVs, there will be a direct reduction in PM 2.5 and PM 10 levels. The government is integrating charging infrastructure and subsidies in a manner that enables Delhi to emerge not only as the country’s, but also the world’s, ‘EV capital’,” she said.
“In this fight against pollution, technology and government support are our strongest tools,” she said.
The Chief Minister clarified that under the new EV policy, the government’s primary focus will be on financial incentives.
To reduce the significant price difference between petrol-diesel (ICE) vehicles and electric vehicles, adequate subsidies will be provided, she announced.
In addition, the Delhi government has already abolished road tax and registration fees on the purchase of EVs, making new vehicles significantly more affordable, she said.
The Chief Minister said that people often express concern about what will happen to their old vehicles if they purchase an EV. To address this, the government has formulated a ‘scrapping’ plan for old vehicles.
A ‘scrapping incentive’ scheme is being introduced to remove highly polluting vehicles from the roads. If a citizen scraps an old petrol or diesel vehicle, they will receive additional financial benefits while purchasing a new EV. This system will encourage residents to shift to electric vehicles, she said.
The Chief Minister said that the government has instructed vehicle manufacturers (OEMs) to ensure coordination in line with demand.
Manufacturers have been asked to ensure the timely supply of vehicles as per market requirements and to keep prices reasonable, she said.
Before finalising the policy, extensive consultations are underway with power distribution companies (Discoms), vehicle manufacturers and scrap dealers, and the draft policy will be made public to invite suggestions from citizens.
The Chief Minister also stated that the Delhi Government is emphasising a ‘single-window’ system and network expansion for EV infrastructure.
Along with major public locations, public charging points will now also be installed near residential colonies, said CM Gupta.
Facilities for the scientific disposal of old batteries and battery swapping will be developed so that users do not have to wait for long charging times. She added that vehicle owners will be given sufficient and reasonable time to transition to electric mobility.
(IANS)
