Earlier today, the Hon’ble Supreme Court directed that no coercive action be taken, for now, against diesel vehicles over 10 years old and petrol vehicles over 15 years old. The order came during the hearing of the Delhi Government’s plea to review the 2018 blanket ban on “end-of-life” vehicles, arguing that such a ban should be based on pollution levels and usage, not just age.
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said, ” Supreme Court has accepted our government’s petition. Now, in the National Capital Region (NCR), no immediate punitive action will be taken against owners of diesel vehicles older than 10 years and petrol vehicles older than 15 years.
Through a review petition, we had requested that vehicle evaluation be based not only on their age but also on their mileage and emission levels, so that only the vehicles that actually cause pollution are identified and acted upon.
By actively participating in the judicial process, we will continue to firmly represent the interests of the people of Delhi. This decision strengthens our resolve to maintain a balance between environmental protection and public convenience as we move towards a developed Delhi.
Reacting to the Supreme Court’s interim relief for vehicle owners in Delhi, Minister for Environment, Forest & Wildlife, Shri Manjinder Singh Sirsa said, “This is a big relief for the people of Delhi. The Delhi Government had filed a plea before the Hon’ble Supreme Court, arguing that the ‘end of life’ for a vehicle should be determined not by its age, but by the pollution it emits and the number of kilometres it has run. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta fought this battle on behalf of the people of Delhi. We hope that in the days to come, we will be able to bring permanent relief to the residents of Delhi,” .
Minister expressed gratitude to the Hon’ble Supreme Court for recognising the sensitivity of the issue, adding that the Government is confident of justifying its case that protects both public interest and the environment.
“While we remain committed to cleaning Delhi’s air, we will also ensure that the rights of our citizens are safeguarded. We will succeed in saving people’s beloved vehicles, as well as improving the environment and air quality of Delhi,” Sirsa added.
