New Delhi:
In a swift policy reversal, the Delhi government has withdrawn its controversial fuel ban on older vehicles—just two days after it came into effect. The now-scrapped order had prohibited petrol stations from refueling diesel vehicles older than 10 years and petrol vehicles over 15 years old, triggering confusion and criticism across the city.
The rule, which was enforced from July 1, aimed to reduce pollution by aligning with previous directives from the National Green Tribunal (NGT) and the Supreme Court. As part of the plan, petrol pumps had been equipped with Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras to identify and restrict older vehicles from buying fuel.
However, public backlash was swift. Vehicle owners, transport unions, and environmental experts raised concerns about the sudden and unclear implementation, especially its harsh impact on lower-income citizens who rely on older vehicles for their livelihoods.
Responding to the uproar, newly-appointed Environment Minister Rekha Gupta announced the withdrawal of the fuel ban. The decision comes as part of a broader effort to reassess how best to tackle Delhi’s air pollution crisis without disproportionately burdening certain sections of the population.
What This Means for Delhi Residents:
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Fuel access restored: Vehicles that exceed the 10-year diesel or 15-year petrol age limit can now refuel at Delhi petrol stations.
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No more seizures at pumps: Petrol stations will no longer deny service or seize older vehicles based on their age.
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Cameras stay—but not for enforcement: The ANPR cameras installed at pumps may remain for monitoring purposes but will no longer be used to enforce fuel bans.
A Delhi government spokesperson said, “We have heard the concerns of the public and stakeholders. While our commitment to reducing pollution remains firm, we will now work towards more balanced and inclusive measures.”
While environmental groups acknowledged the intent behind the original directive, many have urged the government to focus on sustainable solutions—like increasing the adoption of electric vehicles, enhancing public transportation infrastructure, and enforcing stricter emissions standards—instead of relying solely on age-based restrictions.
For now, the rollback provides relief to thousands of Delhiites who were suddenly left in the lurch by the July 1 rule. But the broader fight against pollution in the capital remains far from over.
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