In a bid to regulate the rapidly growing electric three-wheeler sector, the Indian government is set to initiate a comprehensive audit of all e-rickshaw manufacturing units across the country. The move comes amid rising concerns over the safety and quality standards of these vehicles, which dominate last-mile urban transport.
The decision was made during a high-level meeting chaired by Union Minister of Heavy Industries, Mahendra Nath Pandey. Senior officials from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI), and other regulatory bodies were present to discuss the growing issues surrounding unregulated e-rickshaw production.
The government expressed strong concerns about the high number of unregistered and substandard e-rickshaws entering the market. Many of these vehicles, often assembled with low-quality or unsafe parts, have been linked to road safety risks and environmental violations, according to ministry officials.
To address the issue, all registered manufacturing units producing e-rickshaws will be inspected to ensure compliance with safety certifications, type approvals, and production quality standards. The audit will also cover unauthorized assembly units operating without proper clearances or documentation.
As part of the audit process, the Centre has asked state transport departments to assist in identifying violators and mapping all active manufacturers. Strict action, including license cancellation and legal penalties, will be imposed on factories found violating prescribed norms under the Central Motor Vehicles Rules (CMVR).
Industry insiders believe this move will help bring more transparency to the sector, promote standardization, and ensure safer rides for commuters. With India’s EV ambitions gaining pace, the government appears keen to maintain strict oversight, particularly in segments like e-rickshaws that are crucial to affordable urban mobility.
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