In parts of Delhi, excavators are crushing e-rickshaws into scrap. These vehicles, once a lifeline for commuters, are being destroyed by the hundreds. This move aims to address the on-going traffic problems in the city.
So far, the Transport Department has destroyed 566 illegal e-rickshaws, with many more expected to be crushed soon. Owners of these impounded vehicles must either register them or face destruction. This tough approach follows a recent meeting where officials identified illegal e-rickshaws as a major issue contributing to traffic congestion.
The statistics are concerning. Between August 1 and 28, around 1,700 unregistered e-rickshaws were seized. Areas like Dwarka, Burari, and Sarai Kale Khan have become dumping grounds for these vehicles, which are now piled up in designated areas.
This isn’t just about managing traffic. The government is also focusing on safety issues related to illegal e-rickshaws. Many of these vehicles are involved in electricity theft for charging, and they often use poor-quality batteries, which can be dangerous for passengers and the public. This crackdown was intensified after a tragic incident last month, where a seven-year-old boy was electrocuted by a faulty charging wire from an e-rickshaw in Shalimar Bagh.
Recent data shows a sharp increase in impounded e-rickshaws, rising from 134 between January and March to 1,777 in August. To enforce these measures, the government has deployed 39 teams across the Outer and Inner Ring Roads to seize illegal vehicles.
While the government believes these actions are necessary to improve traffic conditions, some critics argue that destroying livelihoods is not the solution. They call for a more balanced approach that includes designated parking areas, stricter enforcement of traffic rules, and a simpler registration process for e-rickshaw owners. However, the government remains firm. The goal is clear: illegal e-rickshaws must be cleared from the roads. Whether this will solve Delhi’s traffic issues is yet to be seen.
As the situation develops, it is clear that the Delhi government is committed to removing illegal e-rickshaws from the streets. However, whether this approach will effectively solve the city’s traffic problems remains to be seen.
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