Mixed reactions to Karnataka’s decision to withdraw permit exemption for electric public transport vehicles

The Karnataka Transport Department’s decision to withdraw the exemption from obtaining permits for electric, methanol, and ethanol-based public transport vehicles has received a mixed response from stakeholders.

In a circular issued on Tuesday, the department revoked the earlier provision that allowed these vehicles to operate without permits, which was in line with the Union Road Transport Ministry’s October 18, 2018, order. The Central government had introduced the exemption to promote eco-friendly transport options and reduce carbon emissions. However, the State has now decided to reverse this, citing misuse of the facility.

Speaking to The Hindu, Radhakrishna Holla, president of the Karnataka State Travel Operators’ Association, welcomed the move. “The government had provided free road permits for EVs, but this was being misused. We saw a surge in EV autorickshaws, taxis, and goods vehicles operating without any regulation. The Transport Department has now rightly stepped in to correct this imbalance,” he said.

Conventional vehicle operators, particularly auto and taxi drivers, have long opposed the exemption. Murthy G.S., a cab driver from Yeshwanthpur, said the exemption had created unfair competition. “This is a good decision. When we are made to follow all safety and regulatory norms, it is only fair that electric vehicle operators also follow the same rules,” he said.

However, EV owners and operators have voiced concerns about the sudden shift in policy. While they have agreed to comply with the zero-permit fee rule, they fear the application process may be cumbersome. “We are okay with getting permits if it’s free, but the government must ensure the process is smooth and not like the badly-managed RTO system we are already struggling with,” said Rafiq M., an e-auto owner from Rajajinagar.