Maharashtra has taken a significant step towards regulating its burgeoning delivery and e-commerce industries by introducing a plan that would mandate electric vehicles (EVs) for food ordering platforms like Swiggy, Zomato, and Zepto. The proposal also aims to improve rider welfare standards in the state.

According to sources, the new plan is part of the Maharashtra Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) guidelines, which have been modified to cover delivery and e-commerce platforms operating within the state. This move marks a significant shift from the current situation where these platforms operate under central consumer laws alone, without any specific state framework.

The proposed regulations would require food ordering companies to switch to electric vehicles for their logistics operations, with an aim to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable practices in the industry. The plan also proposes a rider welfare levy, which would be levied on the companies to improve working conditions and benefits for delivery riders.

The decision comes as several cities across Maharashtra have been experiencing severe air pollution due to increasing vehicular traffic. The implementation of EVs and the introduction of the rider welfare levy are expected to address these concerns while promoting sustainable practices in the industry.

However, not all stakeholders have welcomed the proposal. Some industry experts have expressed concerns about the potential impact on the operational costs of companies, which could lead to higher prices for consumers. Others have also raised questions about the feasibility of enforcing stricter regulations in a rapidly growing industry.

Despite these concerns, the Maharashtra government has emphasized that the plan is aimed at promoting sustainability and improving working conditions for delivery riders. The government has also assured that the regulations would be implemented in consultation with industry experts to minimize any negative impacts on businesses.

As the regulatory landscape continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how companies like Swiggy, Zomato, and Zepto will respond to these new guidelines. With the aim of promoting sustainable practices and improving working conditions for delivery riders, the Maharashtra plan has sparked both interest and concern among industry stakeholders.