New Delhi: In a significant move aimed at tackling worsening air quality in the national capital, the Supreme Court on Tuesday allowed authorities to take action against end-of-life vehicles operating below BS-IV emission standards in the Delhi-NCR region.
A bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul Pancholi modified its earlier order following a plea by the Delhi government, which highlighted the severe impact of older, highly polluting vehicles on air quality levels.
Appearing for the Delhi government, Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati argued that the continued use of outdated vehicles, particularly those compliant only up to BS-III norms, was contributing significantly to the alarming rise in pollution. She urged the court to permit stricter enforcement measures against such vehicles to protect public health.
Accepting the submission, the apex court allowed authorities to initiate action against vehicles falling below BS-IV standards, describing the step as necessary in view of the deteriorating air quality in Delhi-NCR. The modification empowers enforcement agencies to curb the movement of end-of-life vehicles that fail to meet the prescribed emission norms.
The decision is expected to strengthen pollution-control measures in the region, especially during periods of severe air quality, and underscores the court’s commitment to balancing environmental concerns with regulatory enforcement.