Delhi-NCT To Get BS-VI Grade Fuels From April 2018

With the whole of NCR reeling under increasing air pollution, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has decided to introduce BS-VI grade fuel from April 1, 2018, instead of the originally planned date of April 1, 2020. The authorities have asked the OMCs (oil marketing companies) to also examine the possibilities of supplying BS-VI auto fuels in the whole of NCR area from April 1, 2019.

India had only recently moved towards BS-IV fuels in April, 2017 after dilly dallying on it since 2010. The current record-high pollution levels have resulted in an emergency situation in Delhi-NCR which required a quick decision from the officials. This move has been taken by the Government in consultation with the stakeholders. However, the oil refineries which have been making huge investments in fuel upgradation till now will have to pull up their socks to meet the new standards two years earlier than planned.

The availability of BS-VI grade fuel will supposedly lead to a reduction of particulate matter and nitrogen oxide. The Bharat Stage was implemented for the first time in the year 2000 and is largely based upon the European emission standards. Here is a study from ARAI on the difference in levels of air pollutants once there is a shift to BS-VI, which is similar to Euro 6.