E-rickshaw: What safety protocols should be taken?

The electric-rickshaw sector has been under constant focus in India. The deteriorating environment has compelled the government to look for modes of transport which require alternative sources of fuel. This is why the electric rickshaw has been a priority sector for the government. From time to time, they have announced several initiatives to boost the sector. However, the great scope of the sector has also drawn many suppliers. Of them, many are “fly by night” operators. Thus with so many players in the industry, it is most important that it must be regulated properly. The safety of the passengers commuting by electric-rickshaws is of prime importance. It is in accordance with this that the government has taken some steps to ensure the safety of the passengers as well.

Through this blog let us explore some of these safety measures which need to be taken

Safety issues for electric-rickshaws

It was seen that e-rickshaws form a very popular form of transport to commute. One basic reason amongst many others for its popularity is that they are cheaper to travel by in comparison to Auto Rickshaws. However, in spite of its popularity, the safety concerns continue to remain. It is in accordance with this that certain amendments were made in the Motor Vehicles Act to ensure better safety of passengers.

• Restrictions on number of passengers per vehicle

The electric-rickshaw will not carry more than four passengers excluding the driver. It will not carry more than 40kg of luggage. Often in order to make more money per fare, the drivers of electric rickshaws carry more than 4 passengers. This exposes the passengers to great risks. It was, therefore felt necessary to limit the number of passengers should be restricted. 

• Limitation on the Power of the electric motors

To ensure better safety for passengers another restriction has been made in terms of the power of the electric motor which is used in the electric-rickshaws. This limit is 2000 watts. A higher power means that the drivers may ride the battery operated rickshaws at very high speeds which would expose the passengers to high risks. Thus a need was felt to curb this.

• License for drivers

To ensure better safety of passengers it is necessary that only expert drivers are allowed to drive the electric rickshaws. Thus as a part of the amended act, all drivers are necessary to have a license for driving electric rickshaws. 

• Only Government approved e rickshaws

For better safety, the quality of the components used to manufacture battery operated rickshaws is very important. To ensure this the government has made it necessary for electric-rickshaws to go through certain safety tests. 

To conclude we can say Electric rickshaws are a great solution to tackle the environmental issue. But at the same time, passenger safety is of prime importance. Thus Government approved e-rickshaws are the best. Jezza Motors is a leading supplier of government approved electric rickshaws in India. To get a distributorship of electric rickshaws, please contact us.