Officials said the Delhi government is likely to take a decision on Monday regarding curbing BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers in the national capital.
According to an official, a meeting is likely to be held to decide whether to continue with the restrictions.
“The restrictions were in place till November 13 and they have not been extended yet. The AQI (air quality index) has been stable in the capital for the last four days. There is a meeting to discuss what should be done.” the officer said.
During a review meeting last week, the Delhi government’s transport department had decided that restrictions under Phase 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) should remain in place for the next few days rather than a knee-jerk reaction.
Environment Minister Gopal Rai had said last Monday, “Bi-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers will be banned in Delhi under the third phase of the Graded Response Action Plan.”
The transport department, in an order last week, had said that owners of vehicles found flouting the rules would be prosecuted under the Motor Vehicles Act, which could attract a fine of Rs 20,000.
Vehicles deployed for emergency services and government and election related functions are not covered under the ban.
The transport department in its order had said, “As per the directions given under Phase III of the revised GRAP, there shall be a ban on plying of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel light motor vehicles (four wheelers) in the jurisdiction of National Capital Territory of Delhi. The above instructions will remain in force till November 13 or downward revision in the GRAP stage, whichever is earlier. If the CAQM orders restrictions in GRAP-III and above, the restrictions will continue even after November 13 will continue.”