The Supreme Court on Wednesday banned the registration and sale of vehicles with the older BS-III emission norms from April 1. The Apex Court cited health issues as a reason behind the ban saying, the health of millions was more important than commercial interests.
The verdict came on a plea by the Environment Pollution Control Authority (EPCA) and expected to impact almost around 8 lakh BS-III compliant vehicles, which is ready for sale. These vehicles include two-wheelers as well as cars and trucks, lying in various factories and showrooms across the nation.
The new and stringent BS-IV norms were launched in parts from 2010. The countrywide rollout is likely to take place on April 1. The goal to have a cleaner fuel technology would not be possible if older vehicles persist to flood the market, says EPCA.
Except Bajaj, the automobile firms have opposed the EPCA’s plea. Bajaj demanded that only BS-IV compliant vehicles should be sold in the marketplace.