Delhi's Fuel Ban for Aging Vehicles: A New Step to Clear the Air

In a decisive move to tackle escalating pollution levels, Delhi has imposed a ban on fuel supply to vehicles deemed end-of-life, starting July 1. This effort, aimed at improving air quality, has already resulted in the seizure of 16 violating vehicles by the Delhi Traffic Police, who are enforcing this regulation under Supreme Court and National Green Tribunal directives.

According to Ajay Chaudhary, Special CP Traffic Management, the city has clamped down on dispensing fuel for diesel vehicles over 10 years old and petrol vehicles over 15 years old, irrespective of their registration state. Station non-compliance is penalized under Section 192 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, with prospects of vehicle impoundment.

Infrastructural support, such as Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras, has been set up to ensure adherence, capturing and announcing the status of arriving vehicles at fuel stations. As of early July, the initiative is set to widen its reach to neighboring districts from November 1, with further expansions in the National Capital Region planned for 2026.

(With inputs from agencies.)