Telangana auto unions welcome EV retrofit scheme, urge govt to lift cap
Autorickshaw unions in Telangana have welcomed the state government's initiative to promote environment-friendly mobility by providing financial assistance for retrofitting existing autos with electric kits or purchasing new electric autorickshaws. While lauding the move, they have also called for removing the ceiling on the number of beneficiaries and ensuring transparent implementation.
The Telangana government announced the scheme as part of its push to reduce vehicular pollution and encourage cleaner transport options. Under the plan, autorickshaw owners can either retrofit their internal combustion engine vehicles with approved EV kits or switch to new electric three-wheelers, with the state offering monetary support for both options.
A Sathi Reddy, an office bearer of the Telangana Auto Driver Samaikya, described the decision as a step in the right direction. "We appreciate this decision. It is aimed at reducing pollution and protecting the environment," he said. However, he questioned the need for a cap on the number of vehicles covered. "Why have a cap in the first place? Instead of just 18,000 or so autorickshaws, let there be an open field. Remove this cap and it will be good for all," he added.
Reddy also clarified that the proposed August 24 strike remains unchanged. The strike is intended to draw attention to demands including an increase in minimum fare and per-kilometre rates for autorickshaw services.
The Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union (TGPWU) also expressed gratitude to Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy and Transport Minister Ponnam Prabhakar for introducing the scheme. In a statement, the union said that while the financial assistance offers vehicle owners better options in terms of efficiency and economy, the process should be simple and transparent.
"Implementation must directly benefit working auto drivers. TGPWU will continue to fight for fair fares, social security and dignity of every auto and gig worker," said Shaik Salauddin, president of TGPWU.
The scheme is part of a broader effort by the Telangana government to tackle air pollution in urban areas, where auto-rickshaws are a major mode of transport. Transitioning to electric vehicles is expected to cut emissions significantly, though concerns remain about the adequacy of charging infrastructure and the affordability of new EVs for drivers who often operate on thin margins.
The cap of 18,000 vehicles has drawn criticism from some unions, who argue that restricting the number of beneficiaries limits the environmental and economic benefits of the scheme. They have urged the government to expand the programme to cover all interested autorickshaw drivers.
Meanwhile, the upcoming strike on August 24 highlights the ongoing grievances of auto drivers over fare structures. Unions have consistently demanded a revision of minimum fares, which they say have not kept pace with rising fuel and maintenance costs. The government's response to these demands remains to be seen.
As Telangana moves forward with its electric mobility agenda, the success of the retrofitment scheme will depend on effective implementation, clear communication, and addressing the practical challenges faced by auto drivers. The unions' support signals a willingness to cooperate, but their emphasis on transparency and inclusivity suggests that more dialogue is needed to align the scheme with ground realities.
