Delhi has lifted the ban on using BS3 petrol and BS4 diesel cars, bringing relief to their owners amidst concerns about the city's pollution levels. Initially implemented due to deteriorating air quality, this ban was first enforced on December 22 last year, reflecting the repeated imposition of such restrictions in Delhi within a single year.
Also Read:- Maruti Suzuki tol launch three new models in 2024
However, a recent decision by the Delhi government has removed these limitations. This move followed the Commission for Air Quality Management's (CAQM) decision to remove stage III restrictions from the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Delhi. The CAQM's primary responsibility is to devise strategies aimed at combating pollution in Delhi and its surrounding regions.
The decision to lift the ban was announced after a meeting held on January 1 by the CAQM to assess Delhi's pollution levels. Kailash Gahlot, responsible for transport in Delhi, conveyed the positive news via social media, stating, "Given the improved air quality in Delhi, stage III of the GRAP is no longer in effect. Consequently, the restriction on using BS3 petrol and BS4 diesel cars in Delhi has been immediately lifted, though this situation may change later."
Also Read:- Maruti Suzuki tol launch three new models in 2024
Earlier, on December 22, the CAQM had enforced anti-pollution measures under stage III of GRAP in Delhi NCR when the city's air quality plummeted severely for several consecutive days, recording an air quality index (AQI) between 401 to 450. This led to the ban on BS3 petrol and BS4 diesel cars, coupled with a halt in major construction activities under these stringent regulations.
Similar actions were taken in November to combat pollution. During that period, Delhi Traffic Police rigorously checked vehicles to ensure they possessed a Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate. Vehicles failing to comply were fined Rs. 20,000. Recent data shared by the Delhi government revealed that vehicles contribute approximately 36 percent of the city's overall pollution levels.
Also Read:- Ways To Protect Car Paint During The Winter
The decision to revoke the ban on BS3 petrol and BS4 diesel cars in Delhi was primarily driven by improved air quality, prompting a reassessment by the CAQM. The repeated imposition of restrictions underscores ongoing efforts to manage and mitigate pollution levels in the city.