Delhi Government Challenges Vehicle Age Ban in Supreme Court
The Delhi Government has approached the Supreme Court to challenge the blanket ban on diesel vehicles older than 10 years and petrol vehicles older than 15 years in the National Capital Region. Arguing that a vehicle's fitness should be based on its actual emission levels rather than its age, the government is seeking a recall of the court's 2018 order. The move could have significant policy implications and affect millions of vehicle owners in and around the capital.
Unpacked:
The ban was imposed by the National Green Tribunal in 2014 and upheld by the Supreme Court in 2018 to combat rising air pollution in the NCR. Older vehicles were seen as major contributors to pollution due to outdated emission standards and poor maintenance.
The Delhi government points to the adoption of Bharat Stage VI (BS-VI) emission standards in 2020, stricter Pollution Under Control (PUC) norms, wider availability of cleaner fuels, and increased use of electric vehicles, all of which have improved the regulatory and pollution control environment.
Proponents of an emission-based policy argue it is more scientific and fair, targeting only high-polluting vehicles regardless of age. Opponents worry it could weaken pollution control, as enforcement of emission tests may be inconsistent, and older vehicles might still emit more pollutants overall.
Lifting the ban could allow well-maintained, compliant older vehicles to remain in use, reducing financial hardship for owners. It could also revive the second-hand car market, which is an important affordable option for many low- and middle-income families.