Supreme Court Bars Coercive Action Against Owners Of End-Of-Life Vehicles In NCR

In a major relief for old of ageing vehicles in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR), the Supreme Court has stated that no enforcement action will be taken against those who own diesel cars over 10 years old and petrol cars over 15 years old.

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), which serves as a central pollution control body for Delhi and surrounding states, had directed in July that fuel supplies be cut off to vehicles classified as "end-of-life".

Motor vehicles exceeding the age limits specified in the directive were also required to be scrapped.

Following public opposition and intervention by the Delhi government, the order was postponed until 1st November.

The case was presided over by a bench comprising Chief Justice of India BR Gavai alongside Justices Vinod K Chandran and NV Anjaria.

Following consideration of the matter, the court issued a notice regarding the Delhi government's petition contesting the prohibition on diesel and petrol vehicles in the capital.

"Meanwhile, no enforcement measures shall be taken against vehicle owners on the basis that their cars are over 10 years old for diesel vehicles and over 15 years old for petrol vehicles. Schedule this for hearing in 4 weeks," CJI Gavai stated, according to Bar and Bench.

In July, the Delhi government had introduced the "no fuel for old vehicles" directive. However, owing to the outcry, the policy was suspended just 2 days after its implementation.

Published on: Tuesday, August 12, 2025, 05:10 PM IST