The Delhi government has filed a petition in the Supreme Court seeking a review of the existing ban on end-of-life vehicles (ELVs) in the Delhi-NCR region. This includes diesel vehicles over 10 years old and petrol vehicles older than 15 years. In its plea, the government argued that the current blanket age-based restriction lacks scientific rigor and disproportionately impacts middle-class families who rely on older but well-maintained vehicles for daily commutes and essential travel. The ban, enforced under a 2018 Supreme Court directive, has faced increasing criticism for failing to consider the actual environmental impact of individual vehicles.

The petition requests the apex court to mandate a comprehensive scientific study by the Central government or the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM). The proposed study would assess whether banning vehicles purely based on age significantly improves air quality, or if a more refined, emission-focused approach would be more effective. The government emphasized that this method would be fairer and more in line with India’s transition to cleaner fuels, especially in light of the introduction of BS-6 emission standards, which substantially reduce pollutants compared to older BS-4 vehicles.

Highlighting data from recent research, the Delhi government noted that many older vehicles, particularly those maintained in good condition and used infrequently, contribute minimally to overall pollution levels. It stressed the need for a regulatory framework that considers a vehicle’s emission performance and roadworthiness rather than an arbitrary age limit. The plea also pointed out the undue burden the policy places on economically vulnerable citizens, urging the court to revisit and reformulate its earlier ruling to promote both environmental responsibility and social equity.