SC bans diesel vehicles of over 2000cc in Delhi

Taking a strong stand on rising pollution in Delhi and nearby areas, the Supreme Court on Monday ruled that no private diesel vehicle (SUVs and cars) having engines beyond 2000 cc in the National Capital Region from March 1, 2016.

If one goes through the imposed ban, there will not be new registration of Vehicles like Toyota’s Innova, Mitsubishi Pajero, Mahindra & Mahindra’s Scorpio, Tata Sumo, Tata Safari until 31st of March 2016.

The apex court has also ordered that all taxis in Delhi run on CNG, and Euro 4-ready fuel is provided in Delhi and national highways. This suggestion from the Supreme Court was other recommendations, that included a ban on registration of diesel vehicles that have an engine capacity of over 2000cc.

It also put a restriction on the passage of commercial vehicles through Delhi if that was not their intended destination and emphasised that such vehicles would be prohibited from entering the city through the entry points of NH-8 and NH-1.

The Court also asked authorities to enforce ban on burning of municipal waste. The court said its order overrides all the other orders passed by other forums, including the National Green Tribunal (NGT).

Speaking to newswire, Reuters, Mercedes-Benz India said the Supreme Court ruling would “severely impact” growth and its investment in India. Vehicles “bound for Delhi” may enter on payment of ECC at the rates stipulated, those registered in 2005 or earlier won’t qualify for such entry.

For the ordinary person, the effects of pollution in New Delhi are palpable: grey, overladen skies, difficulty in breathing and the smell of vehicle exhaust that pervades the air. NGT has also asked the central and state government to stop buying diesel cars in Delhi. You take the credit for cleaning Delhi.

The World Health Organisation has designated Delhi as the world’s most polluted city, more so than Beijing, with particulate matter 2.5 levels in the atmosphere more than 10 times the recommended safety limit. Even as large trucks could be charged Rs 2,600, mild business vehicles (LCVs) need to shell out Rs 1,400.