The Delhi government has officially enacted a ban on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers, effective from Friday, as part of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-III) aimed at curbing the escalating air pollution crisis in the city.
The government has also imposed a hefty ₹20,000 fine on those who violate this ban, highlighting that offenders may face prosecution under Section 194(1) of the Motor Vehicle Act of 1988, underscoring the seriousness of the new regulations.
The order specifies, “There shall be no plying of Delhi registered Diesel operated Medium Goods Vehicles (MGVs), of BS-III standards or below, in Delhi, except for those transporting essential commodities or providing essential services, ensuring that critical supply chains are not disrupted during this pollution mitigation effort.”
Furthermore, Inter-State buses entering the city from NCR states are prohibited unless they operate on EVs, CNG, or are equipped with BS-VI diesel engines, with an exception for those holding an All India Tourist permit, aiming to limit vehicle emissions in the national capital.
This decisive action follows the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) issuing directives for the implementation of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-III) in the Delhi-NCR region from 8 am on the same day, which responds to the alarming rise in pollution levels.
The plan is designed to enhance the deteriorating air quality in the national capital region, particularly as the Air Quality Index (AQI) has recently plummeted into the ‘severe’ category, indicating immediate action is required to safeguard public health.
Under the GRAP III framework, several pollution mitigation measures are being introduced, including increased frequency of mechanised road sweeping, daily water sprinkling, and the application of dust suppressants, along with a commitment to properly dispose of collected particulate matter at designated sites or landfills to minimize airborne contaminants.
In addition, all demolition activities, earth excavation, filling operations, and the transportation of construction waste have been suspended as a crucial strategy to address the rising air pollution levels in the city.
The GRAP categorizes air quality into four distinct tiers: ‘poor’ (AQI 201-300), ‘very poor’ (AQI 301-400), ‘severe’ (AQI 401-450), and ‘severe plus’ (AQI above 450), creating a structured response to fluctuating environmental conditions.
Notably, in 2023, the city encountered ‘severe’ air quality considerably earlier, on November 2, compared to previous years, further amplifying the urgency for these new initiatives to supplement existing government efforts towards achieving cleaner air.
The comprehensive 11-point action plan being launched will focus on bolstering the frequency of street sweeping, enhancing water sprinkling in high-traffic zones, and promoting public transport, among various other proactive environmental measures to combat air pollution effectively.
What are the expected health benefits of the Delhi government’s ban on older petrol and diesel vehicles?
**Interview with Dr. Anjali Kapoor, Environmental Policy Expert**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Kapoor. The Delhi government has just enacted a ban on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers as part of its efforts to combat air pollution. What are your thoughts on this decision?
**Dr. Kapoor:** Thank you for having me. The ban is a crucial step in addressing the alarming air quality crisis in Delhi. Older vehicles contribute significantly to pollution, so phasing them out can have immediate benefits for public health and the environment.
**Editor:** The government is imposing fines of ₹20,000 for violations of this ban. How effective do you believe this penalty will be in ensuring compliance?
**Dr. Kapoor:** Monetary fines can be a deterrent, especially if the enforcement is strict. However, the success of this measure will depend on the public’s awareness and understanding of the health impacts of pollution. Education campaigns alongside enforcement will be key to compliance.
**Editor:** The regulations also allow exceptions for essential services and goods transport. How do you see this balancing the needs of the economy with the urgency of pollution control?
**Dr. Kapoor:** It’s crucial to maintain essential services while implementing such bans. The exemptions are reasonable but must be monitored carefully to ensure they are not abused. Logistics and supply chain management must be adapted to align with pollution reduction goals.
**Editor:** The ban also restricts inter-state buses unless they meet specific emission standards. What impact do you anticipate this will have on transportation in and around Delhi?
**Dr. Kapoor:** This is certainly a bold move. By limiting the entry of polluting vehicles, the government aims to tackle pollution at its source. While it might cause some initial disruptions in transportation, it encourages a shift towards cleaner technologies like electric and CNG buses, promoting long-term sustainability.
**Editor:** how important is public and community involvement in the success of initiatives like the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-III)?
**Dr. Kapoor:** Public involvement is critical. Citizens need to understand the issues and support measures taken to improve air quality. Engaging the community can lead to grassroots movements for cleaner air, thereby amplifying the government’s efforts.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Kapoor. Your insights on this pressing issue are invaluable. We hope to see positive changes in air quality in the coming months.
**Dr. Kapoor:** Thank you for having me. Let’s hope for a healthier future for Delhi.