Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Aug 12: In a significant development, the Supreme Court has issued an interim order that provides a temporary reprieve for owners of older vehicles in the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR). The court has directed that no coercive action, such as impounding, should be taken against owners of diesel vehicles over 10 years old and petrol vehicles over 15 years old.

The ruling comes in response to a plea from the Delhi government, which sought a review of the Supreme Court's 2018 ban on these End-of-Life Vehicles (ELVs). The Delhi government's application argues that a blanket age-based ban is an unfair and ineffective way to address air pollution.

Instead of a simple age cap, the government is advocating for a new approach based on a comprehensive scientific study. This study would assess the actual environmental impact of the age-based ban and explore alternative, more nuanced solutions. The Delhi government suggests a regulatory framework that focuses on a vehicle's individual emissions and roadworthiness rather than its age. The plea points out that many older vehicles, including some with cleaner BS-6 engines, are well-maintained and used infrequently, meaning they contribute minimally to pollution. This new approach, the government argues, would be more equitable and effective, providing relief to middle-class citizens who depend on these vehicles.