Supreme Court Ends ECC Exemption for Essential Goods Vehicles
The Supreme Court has revoked the exemption of commercial vehicles carrying essential goods from paying the ECC fee before entering Delhi. The decision, driven by operational challenges and pollution concerns, mandates all vehicles undergo checks. Additionally, the court calls for a review of firecracker manufacturing regulations.
- Country:
- India
The Supreme Court has rescinded a longstanding exemption allowing commercial vehicles carrying essential commodities to bypass the Environment Compensation Cess (ECC) when entering Delhi. This move, part of an order delivered by Chief Justice B R Gavai and Justices K Vinod Chandran and N V Anjaria, was finalized on September 26 and released recently.
The court's ruling follows an application from the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, citing operational difficulties and increased pollution due to the previous exemption. Vehicles must now be stopped for verification at checkposts, causing delays and emissions. The bench acknowledged these issues, stating they undermine the levy's intent to control air pollution.
In a related decision, the court permitted certified manufacturers to produce green crackers under strict conditions, encouraging a review of the firecracker manufacturing ban. The Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change has been tasked with consulting stakeholders, including the Delhi government, for further action.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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