In a major move to combat air pollution, Delhi’s Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa announced on Saturday that petrol pumps and CNG stations across the city will stop supplying fuel to vehicles older than 15 years from March 31.
Government’s Strict Measures on Pollution Control
After a high-level meeting with officials to discuss strategies for tackling air pollution in the national capital, Sirsa stated that the government is taking strong steps to reduce vehicle emissions and pollution.
The meeting focused on key policy decisions, including:
- Banning old vehicles from getting fuel
- Making anti-smog measures mandatory
- Shifting public transport to electric buses
Sirsa further explained, “We are installing devices at petrol pumps that will identify vehicles older than 15 years. These vehicles will not be allowed to refuel.”
The Delhi government will also inform the central petroleum ministry about this decision to ensure smooth implementation.
Mandatory Anti-Smog Measures for Buildings and Vehicles
Apart from restricting fuel supply to old vehicles, the government has made it compulsory for all high-rise buildings, hotels, and commercial complexes to install anti-smog guns to reduce pollution levels.
Additionally, around 90% of Delhi’s public CNG buses will be phased out by December 2025 and replaced with electric buses as part of a clean and sustainable public transport initiative.
Targeting AAP Government’s Past Inaction
Sirsa criticized the previous Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government for failing to take action against pollution. He alleged that the previous administration did not utilize funds allocated by the central government for pollution control.
He pointed out three major sources of pollution in Delhi:
- Dust pollution
- Vehicle emissions
- Construction pollution
Sirsa remarked that the previous government had not even installed sprinklers to reduce dust pollution.
Formation of a Special Team for Vehicle Monitoring
The government is forming a special team to identify and track vehicles older than 15 years. This team will monitor heavy vehicles entering Delhi to ensure they meet the prescribed pollution norms.
Furthermore, university students will be involved in mass plantation drives to improve green cover and combat pollution.
Mandatory Anti-Smog Guns for Hotels and Commercial Complexes
Sirsa also announced that all commercial complexes and hotels in Delhi must install anti-smog guns. To further reduce pollution, new forests will be developed on vacant lands across the city.
Additionally, the government is planning cloud seeding to artificially induce rain during peak pollution months, helping to clear the air.
New environmental regulations will be implemented for upcoming high-rise buildings in the city. Sirsa emphasized, “Those who cause pollution must also be responsible for its solution.”
Delhi’s Own Pollution Problem
Sirsa admitted that over 50% of Delhi’s pollution originates from within the city itself. He stated that once Delhi effectively controls its pollution, it can set an example for other states.
The Delhi Pollution Control Authority has been directed to take strict action, and the government is ready to fully support these measures.
