Air quality dip: non-BS6 diesel vehicles operation banned in Delhi

New Delhi: A central government body has issued a circular restricting the operation of several diesel-run vehicles in the national capital region (NCR) after the serious fall in air quality in the region. All non-BS VI diesel-run light motor vehicles were banned from operation to reign in the situation, NDTV reported.

The ban was recommended by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) and issued by the Delhi Transport Department (DTD). Violation of the same will invite a penalty of Rs 20,000.

Only BS6 engined vehicles, in addition to essential and emergency services, will be allowed to operate till the situation improves, DTD stated in its order. But all electric and CNG vehicles would be allowed to operate.

DTD sent a message to the owners of vehicles that come under the banned category, which read: "Since your vehicle is falling in the above category, you are hereby directed not to ply your registered vehicle in Delhi till enforcement of Stage III/ IV of GRAP. If found plying, the vehicle will be liable for prosecution under section 194 MV Act, 1988, which entails with a fine of ₹ 20,000."

However, such vehicles are seen plying on NCR roads, despite the ban, with brimming traffic in NCR.

The air quality in the region remained 'severe' for the third consecutive day. It recorded an AQI of 408 on Saturday after a thick layer of smog kept covering the region. The 'severe' air quality starts from an AQI of 400, which could affect healthy while it is harmful to those who are already ill.