Will Delhi ban BS-III vehicles again due to air pollution?

The Supreme Court is considering recommendations to restrict BS-III and older standard vehicles due to their high emission potential.

What is the CAQM's role in Delhi's air pollution?

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) analyzes pollution and makes recommendations to the court for controlling vehicular emissions.

Are older cars the main cause of Delhi's pollution?

Vehicular pollution, especially from older BS-III and below standard vehicles, is identified as a significant contributor to Delhi's poor air quality.

Home / Environment / Delhi's Air Crisis: Old Cars Face New Ban Threat

Delhi's Air Crisis: Old Cars Face New Ban Threat

10 Dec

•

Summary

Court considers reinstating ban on polluting vehicles.
CAQM recommends stricter emission standards for old cars.
Vehicular pollution is a major contributor to Delhi's poor air quality.

Delhi's Air Crisis: Old Cars Face New Ban Threat

The Supreme Court is set to review recommendations to restrict older, more polluting vehicles from Delhi's roads, a measure aimed at combating severe air pollution. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has analyzed the pollution load from vehicles with BS-III standards and below, contrasting it with BS-VI standards. It has recommended that the court reconsider its August 12, 2025, order that provided relief to these older vehicles.

CAQM highlighted that such short-term measures are crucial given Delhi-NCR's persistently poor air quality during winter months. The commission also proposed a long-term strategy, suggesting an increase in the environmental compensation charge for luxury vehicles, diesel cars, and SUVs with engine capacities of 2000 cc and above. Vehicular emissions are a significant cause of the region's air quality issues, with the use of end-of-life vehicles being a persistent concern.