This surge highlights a major shift in the transportation sector, as traditional pedal rickshaws have virtually disappeared from the streets.

According to Ganapati Kandel, Information Officer at the Mechi Customs Office, Kakarbhitta, a total of 10,164 E-rickshaws worth NPR 894.36 million have been imported since the start of this trend. In the fiscal year 2080/81 BS alone, 4,645 E-rickshaws valued at NPR 412.04 million entered Nepal, more than double the number imported in the previous fiscal year 2079/80 BS, which saw 1,859 units worth NPR 167.12 million.

The increasing popularity of E-rickshaws is evident in the steady annual rise in imports. In the fiscal year 2076/77 BS, 1,032 E-rickshaws were imported for NPR 88.15 million. This number grew to 1,115 units valued at NPR 87.21 million in the fiscal year 2077/78 BS. The trend continued in 2078/79 BS with 1,513 E-rickshaws worth NPR 139.82 million.

The shift to electric rickshaws has transformed short-distance transportation in Jhapa’s urban areas. The convenience of battery-powered E-rickshaws, which can be recharged at home, has led former pedal rickshaw operators to switch to this more efficient mode of transport.

Additionally, over the past five years, 145 three-wheeled scooters worth NPR 24.01 million have been imported through Kakarbhitta with customs duty exemptions. These scooters, used by individuals with physical disabilities, incur only a nominal declaration fee and VAT.

This dramatic increase in E-rickshaw imports underscores a significant transformation in the local transportation landscape, driven by technological advancements and changing consumer preferences.