Clean air on hold? India's capital slams brakes on vehicle ban plan amid public backlash
The rule, which took effect on July 1 in New Delhi but is now suspended, barred refuelling and permitted impounding of private petrol cars older than 15 years and diesel vehicles older than 10.
Officials had hoped it would ease the capital's toxic winter smog, which consistently pushes air quality into hazardous territory.
But the plan drew fierce opposition, with critics warning it would disrupt daily life for thousands without adequate transport alternatives.
A notice announcing the ban on refuelling petrol cars older than 15 years and diesel vehicles older than 10 years, is displayed at a gas station in New Delhi on July 1. Photo: AFP
Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa said on Thursday the government was planning to adopt a new system for managing old vehicles that would address pollution concerns without placing an undue burden on the public.
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