Sun Nov 17 18:37:14 UTC 2024: ## Delhi Minister Conducts Surprise Inspection, Cites Neighbouring States for Pollution
**New Delhi, November 17 (HS):** Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai conducted a surprise inspection at Kashmere Gate ISBT on Saturday to enforce the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage 3. The inspection revealed that BS-IV diesel buses from neighbouring states, despite the ban, were still entering Delhi.
The Transport Department’s enforcement team issued challans to several BS-IV diesel buses from Haryana and Uttarakhand. Rai accused BJP-ruled states of deliberately increasing Delhi’s pollution by sending these banned buses into the city. He cited a CSE report indicating that only 30% of Delhi’s pollution originates within the city, with the remainder coming from NCR districts.
Rai stated that despite Delhi’s efforts through summer and winter action plans, neighbouring BJP governments continue to flout the ban. He highlighted the influx of diesel buses from Uttar Pradesh at Anand Vihar and other states, contributing significantly to the city’s pollution levels. The minister instructed the Transport Department to launch a special campaign to enforce the ban, deploying 84 teams and collaborating with 280 traffic police personnel.
The ban includes BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs), BS-III and below Delhi-registered diesel Medium Goods Vehicles (MGVs), and BS-III and below diesel Light Commercial Vehicles (LCVs) registered outside Delhi. Exceptions are made for vehicles involved in essential goods and services. Only electric, CNG, and BS-VI diesel buses from the NCR are permitted entry. Violators face a ₹20,000 fine.
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