Delhi Pollution Eases: Ban on BS 3 Petrol and BS 4 Diesel Cars Lifted

17 hours ago | 5 Views

Owners of BS 3 petrol and BS 4 diesel vehicles in Delhi can now find relief as the ban on these cars was lifted on the night of December 27, following an 11-day restriction. The heavy rainfall that began on Friday morning contributed to a decrease in pollution levels, thereby enhancing the air quality index (AQI) in the national capital. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) had previously enforced stringent measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage 4 on December 16, which were subsequently downgraded to Stage 3, both of which limited the operation of these vehicles.

Over the past two days, Delhi experienced unseasonal rainfall, resulting in traffic congestion throughout the city on Friday. Nevertheless, this precipitation aided in improving the AQI to 324 by 7 PM that evening. The GRAP Stage 3 and 4 measures will remain in place if pollution levels are classified as very poor or worse, with an AQI exceeding 350. The central agency responsible for monitoring pollution levels in Delhi will determine the timing for the implementation of these measures.

On Friday, the CAQM released a statement indicating, “Delhi's air quality has transitioned from the 'severe' category to the 'poor' range. Consequently, the measures under Stage III, which were previously enforced, are now being rescinded.” This marks the second instance within two months that pollution levels in Delhi have necessitated a ban on BS 3 petrol and BS 4 diesel vehicles. Similar strict measures were enacted in November, lasting nearly two weeks due to elevated pollution levels.

Delhi pollution: What is GRAP

The GRAP measures consist of response strategies implemented to limit activities in Delhi with the aim of lowering pollution levels. There are four distinct stages of GRAP, each imposing restrictions based on the severity of pollution. According to the updated GRAP regulations, the operation of BS 3 petrol and BS 4 diesel vehicles is prohibited in the Delhi-NCR region. However, these restrictions are exempt for individuals with disabilities. Additionally, all non-essential commercial vehicles powered by BS 4 diesel are also barred from operating on the streets of the national capital during this phase. It is important to note that GRAP Stage 2 does not include a prohibition on the use of private vehicles that are BS-3 petrol or BS-4 diesel powered.

Delhi pollution: Key things to remember

The removal of the ban on BS 3 petrol and BS 4 diesel vehicles does not imply that all cars meeting the emission standards will be permitted to operate freely. Petrol vehicles that are over 15 years old, as well as diesel cars exceeding the same age limit, will continue to be monitored by the Delhi Traffic Police. Such vehicles may be subject to impoundment, and their owners could incur substantial fines. Additionally, it is crucial for vehicle owners to possess a valid Pollution Under Control certificate to avoid penalties; failure to do so may result in a fine of ₹10,000.

HOW DID YOU LIKE THIS ARTICLE? CHOOSE YOUR EMOTICON!