In a significant move to combat air pollution, Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) have mandated that only CNG, electric, and BS-VI-compliant diesel buses will be allowed to operate in the region starting today, November 1. This initiative, directed by the Commission for Air Quality Management, aims to significantly reduce emissions from diesel-powered buses and improve air quality.
Stringent Measures for a Greener Future
The directive requires all buses operating between Delhi and cities or towns in Rajasthan, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh within the NCR to comply with these new standards. This change aligns with the onset of the season when pollution levels traditionally rise.
Phased Implementation Across States
For buses operating from non-NCR areas of Rajasthan to Delhi, the compliance with EV, CNG, or BS-VI diesel buses will be mandatory from January 1, 2024. In Uttar Pradesh, buses within eight NCR districts must be BS-VI diesel compliant by April 1, 2024.
Delhi Government’s Stance on Incoming Buses
The Delhi government has also issued guidelines, effective immediately, for buses coming from Haryana to Delhi, requiring them to be either electric, CNG, or BS-VI diesel. Buses from NCR regions of Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan are also expected to follow these norms.
Circular Issued to Neighboring States
The transport department’s circular to Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan outlines the guidelines for buses allowed to run between Delhi-NCR. It emphasizes the transition to EV, CNG, or BS-VI diesel buses for state government, PSU, and private bus services.
Important Information Table
State | Compliance Requirement | Effective Date |
---|---|---|
Delhi-NCR | EV/CNG/BS-VI Diesel Buses | 01.11.2023 |
Rajasthan (Non-NCR to Delhi) | EV/CNG/BS-VI Diesel Buses | 01.01.2024 |
Uttar Pradesh (NCR Districts) | BS-VI Diesel Buses | 01.04.2024 |
Haryana to Delhi | EV/CNG/BS-VI Diesel Buses | Immediate |
FAQs
- What types of buses are now allowed in Delhi-NCR?
- Only CNG, electric, and BS-VI-compliant diesel buses are permitted.
- When will the new bus standards be effective in Rajasthan for non-NCR areas?
- From January 1, 2024.
- What is the deadline for Uttar Pradesh’s NCR districts to comply?
- BS-VI diesel compliance is required by April 1, 2024.
- Are private bus services also included in this directive?
- Yes, the directive applies to state government, PSU, and private bus services.
- What is the aim of these new regulations?
- To reduce pollution and improve air quality in the Delhi-NCR region.