We often see that old cars are removed from the street. Diesel cars are banned for 10 years, while petrol cars are banned from use after 15 years. This decision is not suddenly taken, but there are some concrete scientific and environmental reasons behind it. This limit has been set by increasing pollution, dangerous state of public health and changing technology. Let’s understand the reality of this decision.
Why diesel cars more serious?
Nitrogen dioxide (noâ‚‚) and subtle dust (PM2.5) are more emitted from diesel fuel -powered vehicles. These factors are extremely harmful to human health, as they enter deeply into the lungs. In comparison, diesel cars leave four times more noâ‚‚ and twenty times more dusty air than petrol cars. This is the root cause of the government’s strict policies of pollution.
Old cars and low efficient emission system
As the car becomes old, its engine efficiency decreases. The impact of the technology that controls the emission gradually decreases. No matter how well such cars are maintained, they cannot be consistent with the new emission standards. Compared to today’s BS-VI (Bharat Stage VI) standards, old diesel cars are limited to BS-III or BS-EV standards, which are more dangerous to the weather.
Petrol vs Diesel: What is the difference between pollution?
Petrol fuel is more pure, so it causes relatively less pollution when burning. Diesel has a high volume of sulfur, which produces sulfur dioxide (soâ‚‚), which is one of the serious pollutants in the air. Therefore, petrol cars are given some extension, while diesel cars are allowed for a short period of time.
Consequences
Increased pollution increases the risk of respiratory disorders, asthma, heart disease and even cancer. In urban areas, air pollution is widely seen and the main reason for this is inadequate efficient vehicles. Therefore, from time to time, the government decides to delete the old vehicles from the use, which will protect the health of the citizens.
Vehicle scraping policy
According to the government’s vehicle scraping policy, old, polluted vehicles are scraped and encouraged to buy environmentally friendly vehicles instead of new, BS-VI standards. These include discounts like taxation, registration fee waiver. Private vehicles older than 15 years and commercial vehicles older than 20 years are obliged to scrap them if they fail in fitness tests.
Strict steps in Delhi
Due to the intensity of pollution in large cities like Delhi, these rules are being implemented more strictly there. From July 1, 2025, diesel in Delhi and petrol cars older than 10 years will be closed in Delhi. Therefore, it will be impossible to bring these cars into real use. This foot is important towards bringing effective control over air pollution.
