Central Government Approves 9,585 Crore Scheme to Replace BS-4 Vehicles and Reduce Pollution in Delhi NCR The central cabinet has approved a 9,585 crore scheme to address pollution in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR). The initiative mandates the scrapping of BS-III and older trucks and buses while incentivizing the purchase of BS-VI or electric vehicles (EVs). The plan aims to reduce vehicular emissions, which have long been a major contributor to air pollution in the region. Under the scheme, owners of BS-III and older vehicles must scrap their vehicles or sell them outside the NCR. Those opting to upgrade to BS-VI or EVs will receive tax exemptions, subsidies, and reduced loan interest rates. The government has allocated 5,041 crore for subsidies and tax benefits, with additional support from Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Haryana state governments. The program targets the removal of 1.91 lakh BS-III and older trucks and 16,329 older buses from the NCR. Vehicles registered in the region will be required to comply with the new standards, with owners needing to register upgraded BS-VI or EVs. The scheme also includes a dual benefit for EV and BS-VI vehicle buyers, combining state and central incentives. Delhi’s existing EV policy, which offers up to 1 lakh rupees in subsidies and 100% tax exemptions on registration and road taxes, will be complemented by the central government’s financial support. The central scheme’s tax benefits will further reduce the cost of purchasing cleaner vehicles. The initiative is part of broader efforts to combat pollution, with the central government emphasizing the need to phase out older, polluting vehicles. The plan is expected to be implemented by the end of June 2026, with phased enforcement to ensure compliance.#central_government #delhi_ncr #bs_vi #bs_iii #evs
