Drivers protest crackdown on e-rickshaws

Hundreds of drivers of e-rickshaws staged a protest today over the crackdown on their vehicles which were rendered illegal by the government in April.
The protesters gathered in front of the Transport Department office and blocked Under Hill Road for a few hours, demanding relief.
"They (transport department) are snatching our livelihood by impounding our vehicles. In my family, I am the only bread-winner. If I am forced to be unemployed, I don't know what would happen to me and my family," said Mukesh Sharma, a driver.
The Transport Department had launched a crackdown few days back on e-rickshaws plying in the national capital after the Ministry of Road, Transport and Highways (MoRTH) rendered them illegal via a notification issued on April 24.

"As per new rules, 'a two wheeled battery operated vehicle shall not be deemed to be a motor vehicle...' This amendment withdraws the exemption provided to e-rickshaws," a transport department official said, adding that they were impounding around 50 e-rickshaws every day and the drive would be intensified.
"Delhi Traffic police have also been asked to take action against such vehicles," another official of the department said.
Traffic police officials said once they get notice from the transport department, they would start impounding such vehicles.
"Transport department is going to issue a notice in this regard. As soon as we get the notice, we will take action against e-rickshaws," Special Commissioner of police (Traffic) Muktesh Chander said.