Supreme Court Set to Rule on Future of Bharat Stage VI Vehicles in NCR Next Week: What You Need to Know

The Supreme Court is set to review whether vehicles that meet the Bharat Stage (BS) VI emission standards can operate in the National Capital Region (NCR) after their designated lifespan. This decision comes after a plea highlighting this issue was presented before Chief Justice B.R. Gavai and Justice Vinod Chandran.

Back in 2015, the National Green Tribunal mandated that diesel vehicles older than 10 years and petrol vehicles older than 15 years should be banned in NCR to combat rising air pollution. The Supreme Court affirmed this decision in 2018, emphasizing the need for stringent measures to protect public health.

Recently, the Delhi Government attempted to enforce this ban but faced significant backlash from the public. This opposition led to suspending the implementation of the rule.

The Context of Air Pollution in NCR

Air pollution in NCR has been a troubling subject for years. According to a recent report from the Central Pollution Control Board, air quality in Delhi often falls within the “poor” to “very poor” categories, especially during winter months. The World Health Organization has also marked Delhi as one of the most polluted cities globally, with an alarming air quality index (AQI) frequently surpassing safe levels.

Transport is a major contributor to this pollution. A study from the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi found that vehicular emissions account for over 30% of the city’s air pollution. This emphasizes the critical role of policies aimed at reducing older, more polluting vehicles.

Public Sentiment

Public reaction to the ban has been mixed. Some citizens understand the need for cleaner air and support stringent measures. Others express concerns about the practicality of replacing older vehicles, especially in a city where many rely on them for livelihood.

Social media discussions reflect this divide. Many support environmental initiatives but also highlight the financial burden on families who may struggle to switch to newer models. This sentiment indicates a need for more comprehensive solutions that include financial assistance or incentives for those affected by the bans.

A Path Forward

As the Supreme Court prepares to hear the case next week, the call for maintaining a balance between public health and individual rights becomes more pronounced. Experts suggest a multi-faceted approach: improving public transport, providing subsidies for electric vehicles, and increasing awareness about air pollution’s health impacts.

The outcome of this case could shape not just regional policies but also inspire similar actions in other polluted cities across India. As Delhi navigates this challenge, the discussion around sustainable transport and environmental responsibility continues to grow.

For more information on air quality standards and their impacts, you can refer to the Central Pollution Control Board’s official website.

Source link

Supreme Court on BS VI vehicles, BS VI vehicles in NCR, vehicular pollution in Delhi