Delhi Plans to Ban Gas-Powered Bikes by 2028

Delhi just released a draft policy that could transform one of the world's most polluted cities into an electric vehicle leader within four years.

The proposed Delhi Electric Vehicle Policy 2026-2030 would ban all new gas-powered motorcycles and scooters from registration starting in 2028. The move targets the biggest piece of the pollution puzzle: two-wheelers make up 67% of all vehicles in the city.

Every winter, thick smog blankets Delhi, causing serious health problems for residents and sparking political battles. A recent report found that vehicles contribute about 23% of the city's winter air pollution, making them the largest single source of dirty air in the National Capital Region.

The draft policy went live on Saturday for public feedback. Citizens have 30 days to comment before officials finalize and implement the plan through 2030.

The policy doesn't just ban fossil fuels. It offers purchase incentives for electric two-wheelers, three-wheelers, and goods vehicles, plus tax breaks for anyone buying electric cars.

Starting even sooner, only electric three-wheelers would be allowed for new registration in 2027. Fleet companies would face restrictions on fossil fuel bikes beginning in 2026. By 2030, 30% of all school buses must run on electricity.

The Ripple Effect

Delhi's pollution crisis affects millions of people every day, particularly children and elderly residents who face lasting health consequences from breathing toxic air. If successful, this policy could serve as a model for other major Indian cities struggling with similar air quality nightmares.

The shift to electric vehicles would also reduce India's dependence on imported oil while creating new jobs in the clean energy sector. Other polluted cities across South Asia are watching closely.

With two-thirds of Delhi's vehicles eligible for electrification, cleaner air could finally become reality for one of the world's most population-dense urban areas.