GRAP-III pollution curbs in Delhi, violators to face Rs 20000 fines

Sat Nov 16 14:26:07 IST 2024: ## Delhi Cracks Down on Old Vehicles to Combat Air Pollution

**New Delhi, India –** Delhi has implemented the strictest measures yet to combat its worsening air pollution. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) activated Stage III of its Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), resulting in a major crackdown on polluting vehicles starting Friday.

The Delhi Transport Department will levy hefty fines of Rs 20,000 on vehicles violating the new norms. A number of vehicle categories are now banned from operating within the capital, including: BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel light motor vehicles (cars and four-wheelers); BS-III diesel medium goods vehicles (unless transporting essential goods); BS-III and older diesel light commercial vehicles from outside Delhi (unless carrying essential commodities); and interstate buses from the National Capital Region (NCR) that are not electric, CNG, or BS-VI diesel (excluding those with All India Tourist Permits).

These restrictions, enforceable under Section 194(1) of the Motor Vehicle Act, 1988, target older vehicles deemed significant contributors to Delhi’s poor air quality. The Transport Department claims the measures balance environmental protection with the need to maintain essential services. The move underscores the urgency of tackling the city’s air pollution crisis and improving public health.