The Supreme Court, considering the serious situation of rising air pollution in Delhi and the NCR, emphasized the need for practical and effective solutions. The court also suggested that the Delhi government consider measures to provide alternative employment to construction workers who have become unemployed due to air pollution control measures.
No penalty for 10-year-old BS4 diesel vehicles
New Delhi: The Supreme Court has delivered a significant ruling regarding the alarming levels of air pollution in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR). The court has exempted BS4 diesel vehicles older than 10 years and BS4 petrol vehicles older than 15 years from punitive action. This means that owners of these older vehicles are now relieved from the fear of their vehicles being seized or fined. This order brings significant relief to millions of vehicle owners who were affected by the measures taken to combat air pollution.
Supreme Court's Order
The Supreme Court, considering the serious situation of rising air pollution in Delhi and the NCR, emphasized the need for practical and effective solutions. The court also suggested that the Delhi government consider measures to provide alternative employment to construction workers who have become unemployed due to air pollution control measures. Furthermore, the NHAI and MCD have been directed to take steps to relocate or temporarily close nine toll plazas on the Delhi border to ease traffic congestion.
Relief for BS4 Vehicles
The Supreme Court has relaxed its earlier decision regarding strict action against older BS4 diesel and petrol vehicles. Now, no punitive action will be taken against diesel vehicles older than 10 years and petrol vehicles older than 15 years, providing relief to millions of vehicle owners. This decision is particularly -giving for those who had no alternative but to use older vehicles. This ruling reflects an attempt to strike a balance between the government's and the court's pollution control measures.
Emphasis on New Measures for Pollution Control
The Supreme Court had previously granted relief to 5-year-old vehicles in Delhi-NCR in August 2025, when it sought a response from the central government regarding the ban on 10-year-old diesel and 15-year-old petrol vehicles. Now, the court has directed the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) and the administrations of NCR cities to consider measures such as improving urban transport and providing incentives to farmers to prevent stubble burning. It is clear that more concrete steps are needed given the severity of the pollution.
Air Pollution Situation in Delhi-NCR
The air pollution crisis in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) is continuously worsening. Currently, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in many areas of Delhi has reached the very poor to severe category. The AQI in various parts of Delhi has reached 500, which is considered an extremely dangerous level. In areas like Rohini, Wazirpur, Anand Vihar, and Ashok Vihar in the capital, the AQI level has been recorded between 490 and 500, causing severe breathing difficulties for residents. Dense fog in the morning has also significantly reduced visibility, further complicating the traffic situation.
Upcoming Steps to Control Pollution
The Delhi government and the Central Pollution Control Board will now have to take more effective steps. While the Supreme Court has provided some relief regarding the ban on older vehicles, there is a need for concrete measures to improve urban transport and control the problem of stubble burning. The Supreme Court has clearly instructed the government to consider effective measures that can help alleviate this serious crisis.
