Delhi Government to Impound End-of-Life Vehicles

The Delhi Government has launched a stronger enforcement this time to get rid of all the end-of-life vehicles from the city. Diesel vehicles older than 10 years and petrol vehicles older than 15 years will be removed immediately, wherever found. This move aims to curb vehicular emissions coming out of old IC engines.

Zero-Tolerance Policy for Over-Age Vehicles

The vehicle enforcements now have the power to seize all over-age vehicles found parked anywhere - roads or streets. This strategy marks a shift from advisory warning to direct action, emphasizing immediate discontinuation by sending to scrapping facilities.

Key highlights of the enforcement drive include:

• Targeted Vehicles: Diesel cars over 10 years old and petrol cars over 15 years old.
• No Prior Notice: Vehicles found in violation can be impounded without advance warning to the owner.
• Parking Restrictions: The ban applies to vehicles parked on public roads and in colonies, not just those in active operation.

Financial Penalties and Scrappage Rules

The Delhi government has put a structured penalty system for the owners seeking to remove their impound vehicles. Although, this is applicable under specific circumstances, such as moving vehicles out of the NCT.

The financial implications for owners include:

• Impoundment Charges: A fine of ₹10,000 for four-wheelers and ₹5,000 for two-wheelers.
• Release Conditions: Owners must provide proof of private parking outside Delhi or plan to move out vehicle from state to avoid immediate scrapping.
• Direct Scrapping: The vehicle will be permanently dismantled if owner fails to claim vehicle or meet the legal requirements under a timeframe.

Environmental and Legal Mandates

This crackdown is a direct consequence of the Supreme Court and NGT orders to improve air quality in Delhi-NCR. By removing BS-II and BS-III compliant engines, the government intends to reduce pollutants like PM2.5 and Nitrogen Oxides.

The Delhi government’s intensified drive signals the end of the road for aging internal combustion engine vehicles in the capital. Owners are now left with retrofitting with electric kits, obtaining an NOC, or facing mandatory scrappage. This initiative reflects a growing trend toward stricter urban emission zones, prioritizing public health over vehicle longevity.

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