In a statement published on Thursday, a government body said that from January 1, no new diesel-powered rickshaws will be registered in the areas surrounding the capital in the states of Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan.
From 2027, only autorickshaws running on compressed natural gas or electricity will be allowed to operate in the region, the Air Quality Management Commission in the National Capital Region and adjoining areas said.
Delhi is the world’s most polluted capital city and its 20 million people inevitably breathe smoke most winter days due to vehicular pollution, construction dust and crop residue burning in neighboring states.