Public Pressure Prevails: Delhi Government Backs Down on Scrapping Old Vehicles

Public Anger Wins, Delhi Government Says Won’t Scrap Old Cars And Bikes

In a significant policy reversal, the Delhi government has announced it will not move forward with its contentious plan to scrap old cars and two-wheelers, following an outpouring of public criticism and protest. The decision comes as a relief to thousands of vehicle owners who had been facing the prospect of losing their private vehicles due to age-related regulations.

The original policy aimed to reduce pollution in the national capital by mandating the scrapping of petrol vehicles older than 15 years and diesel vehicles older than 10 years. However, the plan sparked widespread outrage, particularly among middle-class families and vintage vehicle enthusiasts who rely on these vehicles for daily commuting or sentimental reasons.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s administration faced mounting pressure as social media campaigns, petitions, and public protests gained momentum. Many argued that the blanket ban was unfair, especially for vehicles that are well-maintained and still roadworthy.

Acknowledging the public sentiment, a government spokesperson said, “We are listening to the people of Delhi. The intention was never to create hardship but to tackle pollution. We will explore more practical, phased, and equitable solutions.”

Transport officials indicated that the government is now considering alternative approaches—such as fitness-based assessments, emission checks, and possible incentives for voluntary scrapping—rather than enforcing an across-the-board age limit.

Environmental experts have welcomed the pause in the policy, suggesting that more nuanced solutions like improved public transport, pollution-linked taxes, and emission-specific regulations could be more effective.

This U-turn is being viewed as a victory for civic activism in Delhi and underscores the importance of public consultation in policymaking. For now, old vehicles in the capital get a temporary reprieve, but the conversation around pollution control and sustainable mobility is far from over.

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