Supreme Court allows ban on old diesel and petrol vehicles below BS IV in Delhi NCR
The Supreme Court has permitted authorities to enforce a ban on 10 year old diesel and 15 year old petrol vehicles that do not meet BS IV emission norms in Delhi NCR. The decision is aimed at reducing air pollution and improving public health in the region.
The Supreme Court has allowed the implementation of a ban on old diesel and petrol vehicles that fall below BS IV emission standards in the Delhi NCR region. Under the ruling, diesel vehicles older than 10 years and petrol vehicles older than 15 years can be restricted from plying on roads as part of measures to combat rising air pollution.
The court noted that vehicular emissions remain a major contributor to deteriorating air quality in Delhi and surrounding areas. Older vehicles, especially those that do not meet updated emission standards, release higher levels of harmful pollutants that pose serious health risks. The bench emphasised that protecting public health must take precedence over individual inconvenience.
The ruling supports existing policies that aim to phase out ageing and highly polluting vehicles from the region. Authorities have been given the legal backing to take action against non compliant vehicles through enforcement drives, penalties and removal from roads. The decision is expected to strengthen efforts already underway to control emissions during peak pollution periods.
During the hearing, concerns were raised about the impact on vehicle owners, particularly those who maintain their vehicles well despite their age. However, the court maintained that emission norms are based on environmental impact rather than vehicle condition. It reiterated that uniform enforcement is necessary to achieve meaningful reduction in pollution levels.
The ban is part of a broader strategy to address Delhi NCR’s recurring air quality crisis. Along with restrictions on old vehicles, authorities are also implementing measures related to construction dust, industrial emissions and traffic congestion. Cleaner fuel adoption and promotion of electric vehicles are being encouraged as long term solutions.
Environmental experts have welcomed the decision, saying that stricter enforcement against older vehicles can significantly reduce particulate matter and nitrogen oxide levels. They also stressed the need for better public transport options to support commuters affected by the ban.
The Supreme Court’s approval clears the way for stricter implementation across Delhi NCR. With air pollution continuing to pose serious health challenges, the ruling reinforces the urgency of transitioning to cleaner mobility and stronger emission control measures in the region.
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