The battle of air pollution has been drastically engaged in by Delhi through the banning of old vehicles. The government has also put a ban on the petrol cars which are above 15 years old and diesel cars above 10 years which one cannot use in the city of Delhi. The decision is made to prevent the increased number of pollution in the recent times but it has raised some concerns among the owners of the vehicles, the environmentalists and the policymakers.  

In this article, we’ll explore:  

• The reasons behind the ban  
• How it impacts vehicle owners  
• Alternatives for affected users  
• Public and expert reactions  
• Long-term implications for Delhi’s air quality  

Why Has Delhi Banned Old Petrol and Diesel Vehicles?  

1. Rising Crisis of Air Pollution  

Delhi has been in the list of the top polluted cities in the world. Emission of vehicles contributes to the high level of PM2.5 and PM10, which worsens respiratory disorders. The unmodern vehicles (hence older) emit more pollutants.  

2. Directives of National Green Tribunal (NGT) and Supreme Courts  

Courts have emphasized many times on the phasing out of pollutant vehicles. This was according to the restrictions which were first imposed by the NGT and the more recent enforcement falls in line with the same instructions.  

3. Encouragement Electric vehicles (EVs) and Cleansier Fuels  

The government is encouraging the use of EV and discouraging diesel and petrol vehicles. This prohibition fastens the progress towards sustainable transport.  

What Is Meant by the Ban for Vehicle Owners?

1. Imediate Effect to Older Cars  

• No vehicles that are more than 15 years old running on petrol can be driven in the roads of Delhi.  
• Any diesel vehicle more than 10 years old is to be banned completely.  
• Offenders can be fined a maximum of 20000 rupees.

2. Policy and Compensation on Scrapping  

The Vehicle Scrappage Policy 2023 provides rewards toward giving up old vehicles:  

• Financial incentives (discount of up to 5 per cent on new cars)  
• Rebates of tax (up to 25 percent of road tax)  
• Free test exemption of fitness  

Vehicles can be scrapped using Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facilities (RVSFs) by their owners.  

3. Resale and Other Uses  

• One option is to sell vehicles to the states where the norms are not strict.  
• The potential usability might be prolonged by converting diesel vehicles to CNG (provided if it is possible).  

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Public and Expert Reactions  

1. Aid of Environmentalists  

• The move is embraced by the experts, who praise it due to its long-term health results.  
• Evidence indicates that vehicular pollution reduces by 10-15 per cent after the ban.  

2. Vehicle Owners Backlash  

• Families that are dependent on older cars and belong to the middle classes are financially burdened.  
• The operators of diesel commercial vehicles are protesting and want staged implementation.  

3. Government’s Stand  

• The Transport Minister of Delhi puts more stress on the health of the city community rather than the convenience.  
• Incentives in petrol-powered cars and improved mass transportation are offered instead.  

Alternatives for Affected Users  

1. Electric Vehicle (EV) conversion Choice  

• A subsidy of 30,000 rupees on e-rickshaws and a subsidy of 10,000 rupees on electric two wheelers are provided by Delhi.  
• EVs exempted road tax till 2025.  

2. Taking Public Transport  

• Extended metro lines and electric buses are more environmentally friendly solutions to commute.  

3. Shared Mobility and Carpooling  

• There are shared ride apps such as BluSmart, Quick Ride, that decrease carbon footprint by encouraging shared transportation.  

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Long-Term Impact on Delhi’s Air Quality  

1. A reduction in pollution is expected. 

• A 10-20 percent decrease in the PM2.5 concentration is accordingly forecasted by the experts after a 5 years period.  

• Less number of aged vehicles translates to reduced emission of NOx and CO2.  

2. Challenges Ahead  

• Poor availability of EV charging points.  
• High prices of new cars.  

Conclusion  

The move towards clean air by Delhi in the banning of 15-year-old petrol and 10-years old diesel cars is a daring act. Although it is difficult to the owners of vehicles in the short run, the long range effects on health and environment cannot be ignored. This policy can be successful with the help of a strong public transport, the use of EVs, and equal scrappage schemes.  

FAQs  

1. Can I still drive my 15-year-old petrol car in Delhi?  

No, petrol cars older than 15 years are banned. Fines are faced by violators.

2. What if I convert my diesel car to CNG?  

CNG conversion may help, but the 10-year diesel ban still applies.  

3. Are there exemptions for vintage cars?  

Yes, vintage vehicles registered under the heritage category are exempt.  

4. Where can I scrap my old vehicle?  

Authorized RVSFs (Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facilities) provide scrapping services.  

5. How much subsidy will I get for an electric car?  

Up to ₹1.5 lakh subsidy on electric cars under the EV policy is offered by Delhi.

By staying informed and adapting to greener alternatives, Delhi residents can contribute to a pollution-free future.  

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