Vehicles older than 15 years to be banned in Delhi

An increase in the level of pollution in Delhi has appalled NGT. The green court has ordered a set of directions to tackle this issue. NGT has imposed a ban on all petrol and diesel vehicles which are over 15 years old to ply on the roads in Delhi. This move of the green court is likely to affect nearly 10 lakh vehicles in the city in due course of time. 

A bench, headed by NGT chairperson Justice Swatanter Kumar, directed that wherever such vehicles of this age are noticed, the authorities concerned shall take appropriate steps in accordance with law including seizure of the vehicles. The tribunal has also ordered the Regional Transport Office (RTO) not to renew or issue registration for such vehicles or provide fitness certificates.

Established under the National Green Tribunal Act 2010, NGT, has the powers equivalent to that of a civil court. The green court has ordered immediate steps for building cycle tracks in the city and asked authorities to probe the possibility of installing air purifiers at marketplaces.

NGT has further stated that any person can approach the tribunal, Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) or the police to complain about any act resulting in air pollution. It has also directed the Delhi government to create a web portal where public can upload pictures of any such violations.