- Delhi is currently under GRAP phase 4 restrictions due to high pollution levels. This measure prohibits the use of BS 3 petrol vehicles and BS 4 diesel vehicles.
Amid high pollution in Delhi, the state government has received a notice from the National Green Tribunal (NGT) over the use of old petrol and BS 4 diesel vehicles by officials. The notification comes as the capital continues to implement the fourth phase of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) measures implemented by the Council for Air Quality Management (CAQM) from Monday (December 16) amid a spike in the Air Quality Index (AQI) published. These measures include banning BS 3 petrol vehicles and BS 4 diesel vehicles as well as other commercial vehicles.
The NGT has sought a response from the Delhi government on why some officials were using banned petrol and diesel vehicles during GRAP phase 4 restrictions. Commuters caught flouting vehicle ban in Delhi to face maximum fine $20,000. The NGT had earlier banned the use of petrol vehicles older than 10 years and diesel vehicles older than 15 years in Delhi to reduce pollution levels. The few government vehicles used so far are old and violate the NGT ban.
Also read: Vehicles a major contributor to Delhi’s air quality deterioration, study says
The NGT notification issued to the Delhi government reads: “The counsel for the applicant (MLA) while referring to Annexure A2 (list of 107 vehicles of the Delhi government) stated that several diesel and petrol vehicles belonging to the Delhi government have been After 10-15 years of life, they are still plying on the roads. The Delhi government currently has around 3,000 official vehicles. The NGT will hold a hearing on the matter on February 20 next year.
Delhi vehicle ban: Which cars can drive
During GRAP Phase 4, the vehicle ban in Delhi is restricted only to cars with BS 3 petrol or BS 4 diesel emission certificates. All other vehicles are exempt from the ban. Even CNG vehicles with older emission standards can be driven. The restrictions also do not apply to electric vehicles or vehicles used for essential services.
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First published date: December 20, 2024 09:52 AM IST