Centre launches major push to replace 200,000 polluting vehicles in Delhi-NCR

The central government has unveiled an ambitious plan to phase out approximately 200,000 old trucks and buses operating in the Delhi-NCR region within the next twelve months, part of its broader commitment to improve air quality in the country's most polluted metropolitan area.

The initiative, branded as the PARIVARTAN scheme, offers a comprehensive package of incentives designed to encourage vehicle owners to scrap their aged commercial vehicles and purchase cleaner alternatives. The scheme includes substantial interest rate savings on loans for new vehicle purchases, income tax waivers, and direct purchase subsidies aimed at offsetting the cost of replacement.

Old commercial vehicles are among the primary contributors to air pollution in Delhi-NCR, with trucks and buses typically operating well beyond their intended lifespan and lacking modern emission control systems. By accelerating the transition to newer, BS-VI compliant vehicles, the scheme seeks to reduce particulate matter and harmful pollutants that degrade air quality, particularly during winter months when pollution levels spike.

The financial incentives structure is intended to make vehicle replacement economically viable for truck and bus operators, many of whom operate on tight profit margins. Officials expect the combination of tax benefits and purchase incentives to significantly shorten the payback period for investing in new vehicles compared to continuing to operate older models.

The scheme represents a coordinated effort between federal and state authorities to address Delhi-NCR's persistent air quality challenges through targeted action on commercial vehicle emissions, one of several measures being implemented alongside restrictions on industrial operations and construction activities.