Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena has written to Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, urging the Delhi government to put a hold on the implementation of the ban on diesel vehicles older than 10 years and petrol vehicles older than 15 years. In his letter, Saxena emphasized that the residents of Delhi, particularly the middle class, are not prepared for such a sweeping change.
He also recommended that the Delhi government file a review petition with the Supreme Court, drawing attention to the pollution control measures already undertaken by the administration and requesting a reconsideration of the court's earlier directive.
Highlighting the financial impact on the middle class, Saxena said, “For middle-class families, purchasing a vehicle is often a significant investment made with years of hard-earned savings. Scrapping these vehicles simply because they are registered in Delhi—while they remain legal and roadworthy in neighbouring states—would be inherently unfair.”
The Lt Governor expressed concern over the sudden spike in the sale of older vehicles in the city, noting that even high-end and premium vehicles, which comply with modern emission norms and have low mileage, are being sold at throwaway prices. “Owners of premium cars with advanced emission standards are being forced to sell them at junk value, even though many have clocked minimal mileage and meet all safety and pollution norms,” Saxena wrote.
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He further pointed out the emotional value people attach to their vehicles. “In India, vehicles are not just means of transport—they carry deep emotional and sentimental value for their owners. Scrapping well-maintained vehicles that have barely been used would be a serious injustice,” he stated.
Saxena also flagged logistical and regulatory challenges due to Delhi’s geographic location. As Delhi sits at the crossroads of major highways connecting northern, eastern, and western parts of the country, the Lt Governor pointed out a real-world complication—many vehicles passing through the city are fully legal in their home states but don’t meet Delhi’s stricter norms. Denying them fuel, he cautioned, could not only cause confusion and disruption for travellers but also create safety and logistical challenges on the roads.
While urging a pause on the immediate vehicle ban, he also encouraged the Delhi government to take a broader, more thoughtful approach. He recommended developing a comprehensive, multi-sector pollution control strategy—one that includes clear investment plans, realistic timelines, and a focus on long-term sustainability. Ideally, he said, such a plan should be ready within three months, laying a strong foundation for cleaner air without placing undue burden on citizens.
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