Currently, a rule is in place for scrapping old vehicles in the country, in which vehicles are sent to scrap based on their age. But, the Union Road and Transport Secretary has recently expressed a different opinion on this policy. He says that instead of the age of the vehicle, now scrapping of vehicles is being considered keeping in mind the level of pollution. Some people are considering this as a change or U-turn in the government's scrap policy.

Will the scrapping policy change?: Anurag Jain told the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) at its annual meeting that many people have questioned that if they are maintaining their vehicle properly, then why should they give it for scrap? For this reason, it is now being considered that instead of the age of the vehicle, its pollution level (such as vehicles before BS-1 or BS-2) can be made the standard for scrap. However, no final decision has been taken on this yet and it is currently under discussion.

What is the current rule?: At present, the rule of mandatory scrapping of vehicles older than 15 years is in force in Delhi. As per the 2018 decision of the Supreme Court, petrol vehicles older than 15 years and diesel vehicles older than 10 years cannot run in Delhi-NCR. This order was issued to remove old and polluting vehicles.

What is the problem?: A Nurag Jain says that a reliable and strong system of issuing pollution certificates for scrapping will be needed. He said that suggestions have been sought from the industries on this, because in recent times it has been found that many vehicles easily obtain fitness certificates without strict rules.

Experts' opinion on scrap policy: Automobile expert Dhawan says that such discussions have taken place earlier as well, but there has been no major change in the policy. It would be better if scrapping is done on the basis of pollution rather than the age of the vehicle. This will not only provide relief to the common people, but will also benefit the environment. The environment is also harmed during scrapping, so it is not wise to spend money on making the vehicle first and then scrapping it. The basis of the age of the vehicle is not right for the scrap policy, and the government should consider its alternatives.

Road and safety expert Anurag Kulshreshtha says that first the same rules should be made for NGT, Central and State, so that there is no confusion among the people. Currently, every state has different rules for pollution certificate and scrap policy. The vehicle should be scrapped based on its maintenance rather than its age.

Possible changes in the scrap policy: What can you say?: After this discussion, it is clear that the government is considering making the pollution level the basis for scrapping instead of the age of the vehicles. If this happens, it will be a big relief, especially for those who maintain their vehicles properly and want to use them for a long time.

Rahul Gandhi's US Visit Sparks Backlash Over Remarks and Controversial Meeting

Coup Plot or Diplomatic Blunder? Rahul Gandhi’s Controversial US Meetings Stir National Alarm

Adani Group Secures Bid to Supply 6,600 MW of Renewable and Thermal Power to Maharashtra