Delhi’s Fuel Ban on Older Vehicles Sparks Anger: “15-Year Tax, 10-Year Use” Rule Criticized
Delhi’s Fuel Ban on Older Vehicles Sparks Anger: “15-Year Tax, 10-Year Use” Rule Criticized
Delhi's new rule bans older gasoline and diesel cars from refueling. Discover how this initiative aims to tackle air pollution in the capital and the public's reaction.
The recent crackdown on older cars by the Delhi government has become a hot topic of conversation in the capital. The recently implemented rule prohibits gasoline-powered vehicles older than 15 years and diesel-powered vehicles older than 10 years from refueling at city fuel stations. The rule is being implemented with the assistance of Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras at gas stations to identify and restrict "end-of-life" vehicles to reduce the rising levels of air pollution.
The government's decision to scrap diesel cars after ten years has drawn criticism from social media users who wonder if it is fair to pay road tax for fifteen years and then have your car scrapped so soon.
One user asked, "Why pay road tax for 15 years if diesel cars are scrapped after 10?"
Another user commented, "I have been taking care of my car and being in city cover 200 kms or so in month. Cost of car 21 lakhs, In 10 yrs will cover 25000 kms, only considering car value per km cost would be 8.4".
Another user expressed frustration, saying, "A 15-year-old car in NCR isn't even 30% used. This rule is ridiculous. The government needs to reconsider."
Private diesel vehicles in India are subject to a 15-year road tax. Despite paying full tax, owners of diesel vehicles in Delhi are prohibited from using their vehicles after a 10-year ban. Paying for a vehicle that they are legally unable to use has raised concerns.
According to the official website of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways 🔗,
"Tax depends upon the type of vehicle. For non-transport vehicles, the motor vehicle tax is taken at one time, for life (15 years). After 15 years, tax can be paid during the renewal of registration for 5 years."
Many car owners have experienced issues as a result of the move, despite authorities' claims that it is essential for public health. Ritesh Gandotra, a resident of Delhi, was forced to sell his well-maintained, eight-year-old diesel Range Rover with only 74,000 kilometers on the odometer at a significant loss. Like many others, Gandotra feels that the policy ignores a vehicle's true condition and potential lifespan and unfairly penalizes responsible ownership.
#DelhiCars #AirPollution #EnvironmentalRegulations #Sustainability #PublicDebate
