Delhi Fuel Ban for Old Vehicles Delayed

Delhi has postponed its fuel ban on overaged vehicles to October 2025, easing restrictions on petrol and diesel vehicles to address public concerns. The decision reflects the challenge of balancing environmental goals with practical realities.

Initially set for July 2025, the ban targeted petrol vehicles over 15 years old and diesel vehicles over 10 years old, aiming to reduce air pollution. Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) reached “poor” levels (289) in May 2025, with vehicle emissions contributing 40% of particulate matter. The policy, affecting 62 lakh vehicles, would have barred refuelling at city pumps, requiring owners to scrap or re-register vehicles outside Delhi. Public backlash, citing high replacement costs and inadequate public transport, prompted the delay.

The Delhi government is expanding its electric bus fleet, targeting 100% electrification by 2027, with 280 new buses added in 2025. However, only 12% of the city’s vehicles are electric, and charging infrastructure remains limited. Critics argue that the ban’s enforcement mechanisms, reliant on fuel pump checks, are impractical without robust alternatives. Scrapping incentives under the Vehicle Scrappage Policy are insufficient, with only 5% of eligible vehicles processed in FY24.

Air pollution remains a critical issue, with Delhi’s AQI often exceeding 300 in winter due to stubble burning and industrial emissions. Health impacts are severe, with a 30% rise in respiratory cases during pollution peaks. The delay allows time to improve public transport and awareness, but environmentalists warn that prolonged reliance on fossil fuel vehicles undermines India’s net-zero goals.

The postponed ban highlights the need for balanced policies. Strengthening EV infrastructure and incentives will be key to achieving sustainable air quality improvements in Delhi.

Source: Outlook Business