Delhi Begins Immediate Seizure of Over-Age Vehicles

In a decisive move to curb rising pollution levels, the Delhi government has ordered strict action against end-of-life vehicles operating or parked within city limits. The Transport Department has directed enforcement teams to impound diesel vehicles older than ten years and petrol vehicles older than fifteen years without issuing any prior notice to owners.

The order applies across the National Capital Territory and will be enforced with immediate effect.

What Qualifies for Seizure

Vehicles falling under the end-of-life category include:

• Diesel vehicles more than 10 years old
• Petrol vehicles more than 15 years old
• Vehicles compliant with BS III or older emission standards
• Vehicles parked in public spaces, even if not in use

Authorities have clearly stated that vehicle condition, maintenance history, or limited usage will not be considered. Age and emission norms are the only deciding factors.

Even Parked Vehicles Are Not Safe

Unlike earlier drives that focused mainly on vehicles caught during operation, this enforcement extends to stationary vehicles as well. Any over-age vehicle found parked on roadsides, outside homes, in markets, or in public areas can be seized on the spot.

Officials have warned owners not to assume that occasional use will prevent action. If the vehicle falls under the defined age bracket, it remains liable for impoundment.

Direct Transfer to Scrappage Facilities

Once identified, vehicles will be taken directly to authorised scrappage centres. There will be no show cause notice or prior intimation issued to registered owners. The decision follows existing court directives and pollution control mandates that aim to remove high-emission vehicles from Delhi’s roads.

The Transport Department emphasised that the primary goal is to reduce vehicular pollution, as Delhi consistently records some of the poorest air quality levels in the country.

Limited Relief for Owners

Owners who wish to retain their vehicles can apply for a No Objection Certificate to transfer them outside the National Capital Region, where rules may differ. However, without a valid NOC, such vehicles will not be permitted to leave Delhi and will remain subject to seizure.

The latest directive signals a tougher enforcement phase, and vehicle owners are advised to verify their registration details immediately to avoid unexpected scrappage.