An expert committee constituted by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has drafted a long-term roadmap aimed at significantly reducing vehicular emissions in Delhi-NCR. The proposal, which is currently open for feedback, outlines a phased withdrawal of older Bharat Stage (BS) emission-standard vehicles and a gradual transition towards zero tailpipe emission transport.
The panel, chaired by IIT Madras professor Ashok Jhunjhunwala, has recommended the immediate removal of BS-I, BS-II and BS-III vehicles from the region. It has also suggested phasing out BS-IV vehicles over the next five years. Under the draft plan, BS-VI two-wheelers could be withdrawn by 2035, while BS-VI cars may remain in operation until 2040.
Health concerns appear to be a key driver behind the proposal. The panel noted that during periods when the Air Quality Index (AQI) crosses 250, exposure levels are considered severe, with potential long-term consequences for vulnerable populations. Rising demand for respiratory medical equipment and medication has also been cited as an indicator of worsening air quality impacts.
Beyond phasing out older vehicles, the roadmap proposes discouraging the registration of new petrol and diesel vehicles in a gradual manner. It emphasises the need to accelerate adoption of Zero Tailpipe Emission (ZTE) vehicles, a category that includes battery electric and hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles.
The draft suggests that all new two-wheelers used for commercial purposes, as well as taxis registered after April 2027 in Delhi-NCR, should be ZTE vehicles. From April 2028, newly registered light commercial vehicles such as pickup trucks and mini-trucks may also need to meet zero-emission criteria. Additionally, the panel has proposed that only electric cars be registered in the region from April 2030 onwards.
To balance environmental objectives with consumer interests, the proposal includes a transition window of 10-15 years for phasing out BS-VI vehicles. This is intended to prevent financial hardship for recent buyers while still moving towards cleaner mobility goals.
Other measures under consideration include restricting the usage of BS-IV vehicles during high-pollution periods beginning later this year, and potentially limiting BS-VI vehicle operations from 2035 onward. The panel has also indicated the need for a legal framework establishing a “right to charge” to ensure residents have access to EV charging infrastructure at homes and workplaces.
The draft recommendations are yet to be finalised and may undergo revisions following stakeholder consultation. If implemented, the roadmap would mark one of the most aggressive regional transitions away from internal combustion engine vehicles in India.
