Proposal to Eliminate Diesel Vehicles in Mumbai? Bombay High Court Raises Concerns Amid Increasing Air Quality Index
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Following a decade-long ban on diesel vehicles in Delhi, Mumbai may soon become the next significant city to initiate the phase-out of diesel vehicles. On Thursday, the Bombay High Court reportedly suggested the gradual elimination of diesel vehicles in response to the worsening air quality in the financial hub. This proposal also encompassed the discontinuation of wood and coal-fired kilns, commonly referred to as 'bhattis,' utilized by bakeries.
The Bombay High Court expressed its concern regarding the escalating levels of the air quality index (AQI) in the city. As of January 10, 2025, Mumbai's AQI was recorded at 148, categorizing it as poor. The bench, which included Chief Justice DK Upadhyaya and Justice GS Kulkarni, underscored the necessity of transitioning to CNG and electric vehicles as a means to address air pollution, as reported by The Bar & Bench.
Phase out diesel engines, permit CNG, EVs
The Bench proposed, "While we do not intend to replicate Delhi's approach, might we consider allowing only CNG-powered vehicles and gradually eliminating diesel engines?" This suggestion arose during the court's examination of a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed in 2023, which addressed the city's deteriorating air quality.
Senior Advocate Darius Khambatta, serving as Amicus Curiae in this case, pointed out that the bhattis utilized by bakeries rank as the third-largest source of air pollution in Mumbai. He noted that construction sites and red-category industries are the primary contributors. Khambatta underscored the critical need to tackle pollution stemming from construction activities, which he identified as the foremost cause of air pollution in the city.
In addition, the Bombay High Court recommended a systematic phase-out of diesel vehicles to mitigate pollution levels. The court also advocated for encouraging the public to opt for CNG or electric vehicles over those powered by petrol or diesel.
Unchecked construction sites biggest contributor to high AQI
The increasing levels of pollution have resulted in a reduced lifespan for diesel vehicles in Delhi. In response to the severe pollution crisis, a ban on BS3 and BS4 vehicles has been implemented in the capital to further mitigate air quality issues.
In light of the concerning pollution levels in Mumbai, this initiative may appear to be a positive step. Nevertheless, it is important to note that Mumbai has historically been dominated by petrol vehicles, with a relatively low proportion of diesel passenger cars. Additionally, the city must address the rampant construction activities that have contributed to the rise in pollution over recent years. The court has supported the implementation of real-time pollution monitoring at construction sites.
