In a significant move to combat pollution, Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy announced on Thursday that diesel-powered auto-rickshaws in Hyderabad would be shifted beyond the Outer Ring Road (ORR) and replaced with electric autos. This initiative is part of the government’s plan to make Hyderabad a pollution-free city. The announcement adds to the challenges already faced by auto drivers, who have seen a decline in passenger occupancy following the introduction of free bus travel for women.
In an effort to help auto drivers transition to electric vehicles, CM Reddy suggested that Transport Minister Ponnam Prabhakar devise a new policy that would enable those currently operating diesel vehicles to purchase electric ones. At times, auto drivers resort to using kerosene to reduce operational costs.
Additionally, the Chief Minister revealed that 3,000 RTC buses currently operating in the city’s core areas would be relocated beyond the ORR, and 3,000 electric buses would be introduced within the next two years, in collaboration with the Centre. This part of the initiative is aimed at reducing pollution and enhancing the city’s environmental sustainability.
To promote electric vehicles, the state government has waived the registration fee for such vehicles and introduced a scrap policy to phase out 15-year-old vehicles. Reddy emphasized that making Hyderabad pollution-free would require tough decisions, and the full support of the public to ensure success. He also highlighted the financial benefits for women, who are saving up to Rs. 10,000 per month due to various government schemes, including free bus travel, free power, and subsidized gas cylinders.
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