The Delhi government has paused its controversial policy to restrict fuel access for old vehicles starting July 1, 2025. The rule, which barred diesel vehicles older than 10 years and petrol vehicles older than 15 years from refueling at petrol pumps, has been met with widespread criticism and system-related failures.
The primary aim of this policy was to reduce vehicular pollution in the national capital. However, vehicle owners strongly opposed the decision, arguing that they had paid 15 years of road tax and their vehicles were still in good condition. Many maintained that their vehicles passed the Pollution Under Control (PUC) test and should not be penalized purely based on age.
Public outrage intensified after viral incidents surfaced on social media, including one where a 16-year-old, low-emission Mercedes was forcefully scrapped despite being in excellent condition. This sparked a larger debate on whether the policy was fair and practical.
Adding to the problem, the Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras installed at petrol stations reportedly malfunctioned. This led to the incorrect identification of vehicles and unjustified impounding, further damaging public trust.
Reacting to the growing criticism, Delhi’s Environment Minister Rekha Gupta clarified that old vehicles will not be forcibly scrapped. The government will now focus only on vehicles that are actually polluting, instead of targeting them solely based on age. The administration is working to improve technical infrastructure and adopt a fitness-based assessment model.
Moving forward, the government plans to ensure proper notification to vehicle owners, improve ANPR systems, and avoid any unjust action against compliant vehicles. The goal is to build a smarter, fairer pollution control mechanism without causing undue hardship to responsible citizens.
Conclusion:
The Delhi government has stepped back from its blanket ban on old vehicles, citing public resistance and system limitations. A revised policy will now focus on actual pollution levels and vehicle fitness, offering relief to thousands of vehicle owners across the capital.