Embarking on a weekend escape or tackling the daily commute in Haryana may soon pose a challenge. The Haryana government, in line with the National Green Tribunal (NGT) guidelines, has initiated the implementation of measures to curtail the usage of older vehicles in Panipat, Karnal, and other regions within the National Capital Region (NCR). This enforcement specifically targets diesel vehicles older than a decade and petrol vehicles surpassing the 15-year mark, with directives to impound such vehicles. With the Regional Transport Office (RTO) and vehicle Registration Certificate (RC) details becoming integral, this recent move has sparked a discourse – is it a necessary stride towards purer air, or an inconvenience for motorists?
In this blog, we delve into the intricacies of Haryana's old vehicle ban. We examine the rationale underpinning the enforcement of this regulation, its repercussions on travellers from neighbouring states, and propose alternative solutions for a more sustainable commute. By grasping the broader context, we aim to navigate this transition and contribute to a healthier environment for all.
Understanding the Enforcement of the Ban
Experts speculate that the primary impetus behind enforcing the ban lies in the NGT's endeavour to mitigate the escalating levels of air pollution in Haryana. The NGT has been at the forefront of advocating for stringent vehicle emission norms across India, particularly in the heavily polluted pockets of the NCR region. Recently, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) underscored Haryana as one of the states grappling with alarming air quality.
Areas Affected by the Enforcement of the Ban
The ban currently extends to NCR areas of Haryana, including key cities like Gurugram, Faridabad, Noida, Ghaziabad, and Bahadurgarh. Panipat Police have initiated a targeted enforcement drive to clamp down on vehicles flouting the age restrictions. Authorities are focusing on petrol vehicles older than 15 years and diesel counterparts exceeding 10 years. Police units have been deployed along critical state thoroughfares such as Panipat-Haridwar, Panipat-Rohtak, and Panipat-Jind to ensure compliance. Seized vehicles are impounded and taken to police stations.
Implications for Travellers
Residents and travellers from neighboring states such as Punjab, Chandigarh, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh must exercise caution. Before venturing into Haryana or NCR territories, it is imperative to ascertain whether one's vehicle conforms to the stipulated age criteria. Consultation of online resources or reaching out to Haryana's transport department for the latest updates on the ban's enforcement is advisable. In the event of non-compliance, exploring alternative routes unaffected by the ban is prudent.
Also Read: Cars to be Discontinued in India Due to New Emission Norms
Exemptions?
While the latest reports do not explicitly mention exemptions, it is recommended to stay abreast of official announcements regarding concessions for commercial vehicles with special permits or those running on cleaner fuels like CNG. Moreover, clarity is warranted regarding the exemption status of out-of-state vehicles possessing valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificates.
Alternatives to Old Vehicles
For individuals confronted with the enforcement of the ban on older vehicles, exploring alternative commuting modes assumes paramount importance. Carpooling arrangements with colleagues or acquaintances heading in the same direction can substantially reduce vehicular density on roads. Embracing public transportation alternatives such as electric cabs and buses offers a convenient and eco-conscious travel option. Additionally, considering factors like Car Insurance, and avenues to buy and sell cars, alongside the burgeoning adoption of Electric Vehicles (EVs), presents a promising avenue. Government initiatives incentivizing electric vehicle adoption, such as tax rebates and the development of charging infrastructure, could further catalyze the transition towards cleaner mobility.
Scrapping Policy and Incentives - What's the Way Forward?
Haryana appears poised to take strides towards further diminishing the presence of old vehicles on roads. The move to enforce the ban may pave the way for a meticulously crafted vehicle scrapping policy aimed at expediting the phasing out of older vehicles. This aligns with the central government's push for a nationwide scrappage policy. Incentives such as subsidies or tax concessions on new vehicle purchases following the scrapping of older ones could form part of this endeavour. Additionally, the implementation of e-challan systems for monitoring compliance with the ban and related regulations could enhance enforcement efforts. Vigilance regarding updates on such initiatives in Haryana, available on official government platforms like the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, is recommended.
Conclusion
The recent enforcement of the ban on old vehicles in Haryana underscores a concerted effort to address air pollution concerns. Staying abreast of evolving regulations and adhering to traffic norms is imperative. Exploring alternative solutions such as carpooling, public transport, or electric vehicles for a cleaner and sustainable commute is encouraged. Additionally, leveraging resources like the CarInfo app for accessing vehicle service history and essential information about cars can aid in making informed decisions. Through collective action and utilizing tools like CarInfo, we can foster a healthier environment in Haryana.
Disclaimer: The information presented in this blog is derived from available news reports and is subject to change pending further government announcements. For the latest regulatory updates, always refer to official government sources.
