Archive · 11 Jun 2025
Delhi E-Rickshaws: Power Theft Costs Rs 120 Crore Annually
Many electric rickshaws in Delhi are stealing electricity, which is costing the city a lot of money.
Over 60% of these rickshaws are involved.
This illegal activity results in an estimated loss of 120 crore rupees yearly.
It's also dangerous, creating fire and electrocution hazards.
Rickshaw drivers often pay a daily fee to groups that charge the rickshaws illegally.
These groups tap into the power grid illegally, straining the power supply.
Exposed wires and unsafe batteries are also a major concern, posing risks especially to children.
Power theft by Delhi e-rickshaws causes an annual loss of approximately Rs 120 crore.
Over 60% of the estimated 1.6 lakh e-rickshaws are involved in power theft.
Illegal charging practices pose safety hazards like fire and electrocution.
E-rickshaw owners/drivers pay a daily fee to charging mafia for illegal access.
Theft causes strain on the power grid, potentially leading to breakdowns.
- Who
- Discom officials, e-rickshaw owners/drivers, and the charging mafia.
- What
- Power theft by e-rickshaws causing financial losses and safety hazards.
- When
- Ongoing
- Where
- Delhi, specifically Mandawali, Minto Road, Karol Bagh, and other areas.
- Why
- To avoid paying for electricity, leading to financial gain for charging mafia and operational cost savings for e-rickshaw owners.
- Estimated e-rickshaws in Delhi
- 1.6 lakh
- Registered e-rickshaws
- 50,000
- Percentage of e-rickshaws involved in power theft
- Over 60%
- Annual loss due to power theft
- Rs 120 crore
- Tariff for legal e-rickshaw charging
- Rs 4.50 per unit