Delhi Government Backtracks on Fuel Ban for Old Vehicles, Prioritizes Comprehensive PUC Policy

Due to significant public opposition, the Delhi government has paused the enforcement of its fuel ban for older vehicles. The original policy, intended to curb pollution, would have prohibited fuel sales to diesel vehicles over a decade old and petrol vehicles over 15 years old starting July 1, 2025. The decision followed an uproar from Delhi residents and initial actions by the traffic police. Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa intervened, requesting the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to reassess the directive. The focus has shifted towards a more nuanced strategy, potentially involving measures to identify and address poorly maintained vehicles, rather than solely relying on age. The previous plan could have affected a large number of vehicles. The government is now developing a robust Pollution Under Control (PUC) system. Owners of End of Life Vehicles (ELV) will receive advance notice before any phase-out occurs.