BS-IV ban row: Transporters threaten chakka jam

New Delhi: Delhi’s proposed November 1 ban on the entry of BS-IV and older commercial and private vehicles has triggered a confrontation with transport associations, which are threatening street protests, road blockades and legal action if the government refuses to reconsider the move. Transport leaders argue that the blanket restriction, introduced to curb pollution, could cripple businesses, threaten livelihoods and disrupt the supply of goods without sufficient scientific assessment of its effectiveness.

Dr Harish Sabharwal, president of the All India Motor Transport Congress, and Rajendra Kapoor, president of the All India Motor and Goods Transport Association, have criticised the decision as unfair and disconnected from ground realities. They contend that restricting vehicles solely on the basis of their emission category, without assessing their actual pollution levels, could impose a disproportionate burden on transport operators across Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR).

Sabharwal said approximately 10,000 to 12,000 vehicles from outside Delhi enter the capital every day, while around 2.5 lakh vehicles across the NCR could be affected by the restrictions. Goods carriers using Euro-IV, or BS-IV, technology and travelling from different parts of the country are also likely to face difficulties entering Delhi.

Kapoor pointed out that BS-IV vehicles continue to operate in several parts of India, even as Delhi prepares to restrict their entry. He warned that stopping vehicles travelling from distant states, including Tamil Nadu, at the capital’s borders could disrupt long-distance freight operations and create a serious logistical crisis.

Transporters have questioned why vehicles possessing valid pollution certificates and other statutory documents should be prohibited from entering Delhi. They said vehicle owners obtain Pollution Under Control Certificates (PUCCs) from government-authorised agencies or original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), comply with prescribed standards and pay applicable green taxes, pollution taxes and road taxes. According to the associations, imposing a blanket restriction based on vehicle classification despite these requirements raises questions about fairness and implementation.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Purna Singh

[email protected]

Purna Singh Yadav is an experienced journalist specializing in politics and general reporting. With over 3 years of writing expertise in political as well as general reporting. Purna has completed her post-graduation from Amity University with specialization in public relations and advertising. When she is not immersed in writing, she can be found spending time watching movies. With three years of experience as a frontline journalist, she has honed her craft in various genres, including entertainment, crime, and education. Purna's diverse family history and embrace of cultures as well as good communication skills have enriched her writing with unique perspectives.

Read More