The Delhi government is set to implement a ban on refuelling overaged petrol and diesel vehicles from April 1, 2025. This initiative aims to reduce pollution and improve air quality in the city. It follows the directive of the National Green Tribunal to deregister vehicles that exceed their operational lifespan. The government is employing advanced technology to enforce this ban effectively.
Implementation of Automatic Detection Systems
Over 80 per cent of fuel stations in Delhi will install Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras. These cameras will identify vehicles that are either deregistered or lack a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate. When a non-compliant vehicle attempts to refuel, the system will alert the attendants to deny service. This technology will enhance compliance with environmental regulations.
Criteria for Vehicle Deregistration
The Transport Department of Delhi has deregistered over 5.9 million vehicles until September 2024. Diesel vehicles older than ten years and petrol vehicles older than fifteen years are subject to automatic deregistration. This measure is aimed at phasing out older, more polluting vehicles from the roads, thereby contributing to cleaner air in the capital.
Seizure of Non-Compliant Vehicles
Vehicles that do not comply with the new regulations will be subject to seizure. If found parked in public spaces or on roads, these vehicles will be impounded by the Transport Department. This step is part of a broader strategy to ensure adherence to environmental standards and promote the scrapping of outdated vehicles.
Incentives for Scrapping Old Vehicles
To encourage the removal of overaged vehicles, the Delhi government has introduced a scrapping policy. Owners of deregistered vehicles can receive incentives for scrapping their old vehicles. This policy aims to facilitate a transition to newer, less polluting vehicles and reduce the overall vehicular emissions in the city.
Guidelines for End-of-Life Vehicles
In 2024, the government issued guidelines for managing end-of-life vehicles. According to these guidelines, impounded vehicles can only be released if the owner agrees to park them in private premises or registers them in another state with necessary approvals. This measure aims to prevent non-compliant vehicles from returning to the roads.
Strengthening Enforcement
The Delhi government is committed to strengthening enforcement through modern technology. Emission-monitoring devices will be installed at petrol pumps to ensure compliance. This proactive approach aims to create a cleaner environment and improve public health by reducing vehicular pollution.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the impact of deregistration policies on urban air quality in India.
- What are the technological advancements in vehicle monitoring? Explain their significance in pollution control.
- Comment on the role of government incentives in promoting environmental sustainability in urban areas.
- What are the challenges faced in implementing scrapping policies for end-of-life vehicles? Discuss with suitable examples.
Answer Hints:
1. Critically analyse the impact of deregistration policies on urban air quality in India.
- Deregistration of overaged vehicles reduces the number of polluting vehicles on the road.
- Improved air quality is linked to decreased emissions from older, less efficient engines.
- Case studies show reductions in particulate matter and other pollutants in cities implementing such policies.
- Public health benefits include lower respiratory diseases and improved overall community health.
- Long-term adherence to these policies can enhance urban livability and sustainability.
2. What are the technological advancements in vehicle monitoring? Explain their significance in pollution control.
- Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) systems identify non-compliant vehicles efficiently.
- Emission-monitoring devices at petrol pumps ensure vehicles meet pollution standards before refuelling.
- Real-time data collection aids in tracking compliance and addressing violations swiftly.
- Integration of technology facilitates better enforcement of environmental regulations.
- Technological advancements encourage public awareness and accountability regarding vehicle emissions.
3. Comment on the role of government incentives in promoting environmental sustainability in urban areas.
- Incentives encourage vehicle owners to scrap older, polluting vehicles, promoting cleaner alternatives.
- Financial benefits can accelerate the transition to electric or hybrid vehicles.
- Government policies create a supportive framework for sustainable practices in urban transport.
- Incentives can enhance public participation in environmental initiatives, encouraging a culture of sustainability.
- Successful incentive programs can serve as models for other regions aiming to improve air quality.
4. What are the challenges faced in implementing scrapping policies for end-of-life vehicles? Discuss with suitable examples.
- Public resistance due to attachment to older vehicles and perceived loss of value can hinder compliance.
- Lack of awareness about the benefits of scrapping and available incentives may limit participation.
- Logistical issues in the scrapping process, such as insufficient facilities and resources, can impede implementation.
- Corruption and inefficiency within regulatory bodies may undermine enforcement efforts.
- Examples include challenges faced in cities like Delhi, where high vehicle density complicates policy enforcement.
