Supreme Court Grants Temporary Relief on Diesel and Petrol Vehicle Ban in Delhi

In a significant development for vehicle owners in Delhi, the Supreme Court has paused enforcement of rules banning older diesel and petrol vehicles. The temporary order allows time for further legal review and provides immediate respite for those affected.

4 Weeks Relief for Petrol and Diesel Vehicle Owners

On Tuesday, the Supreme Court ordered that no coercive action be taken for 4 weeks against owners of diesel vehicles more than 10 years old and petrol vehicles more than 15 years old in the capital. The bench, led by Chief Justice of India BR Gavai along with Justices K Vinod Chandran and NV Anjaria, was hearing a review petition by the Delhi government against the 2018 order that imposed the restrictions.

The 2018 directive categorised such vehicles as end of life, effectively prohibiting their use. The court’s latest intervention temporarily halts the application of these rules.

Delhi Government Challenges 2018 Ban

The Delhi government argued that the ban lacks a scientific basis and is not supported by environmental impact assessments. Officials highlighted that pollution control measures have significantly improved since the original order, citing stricter regulations, robust enforcement of the Pollution Under Control (PUC) system, and the nationwide implementation of Bharat Stage VI emission norms in 2020.

They also expressed concern that under the current rules, even Bharat Stage VI compliant vehicles could face restrictions within a few years despite meeting emission standards.

Solicitor General Urges Against Arbitrary Seizures

Representing the Delhi government, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta urged the court to prevent arbitrary enforcement measures such as vehicle seizures. He illustrated the inequity in the current system by comparing lightly used personal cars with heavily used commercial taxis, pointing out that age alone is an unfair basis for prohibition.

The Solicitor General emphasised that owners of well-maintained, low-usage vehicles should not be penalised solely on the passage of time since purchase.

Next Hearing Scheduled After 4 Weeks

The Supreme Court has issued a notice returnable in four weeks, during which time no coercive measures can be taken. This period will allow for further examination of the rationale behind the ban and its long-term implications.

Read More: Delhi Government Looks for EV Policy Extension Amid New Policy Delays! 

Conclusion 

The decision has been welcomed by many residents who were concerned about losing the use of their vehicles despite compliance with existing pollution norms. The case’s outcome could potentially reshape regulations on vehicle lifespan and usage in Delhi.

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