In a major step to tackle air pollution, the central government has approved a special scheme worth ₹5,041 crore for Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR).
The scheme aims to replace old trucks and buses with cleaner BS-VI and electric vehicles.
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced the decision on Wednesday. Vehicle owners who switch from older vehicles to new BS-VI or electric models will receive financial support under the scheme.
Attractive Benefits for Vehicle Owners
To encourage vehicle replacement, the government will offer several incentives.
Owners will get a 5% interest subsidy on vehicle loans for five years. They will also receive monthly fuel vouchers worth up to ₹4,800 for five years, depending on the type of vehicle.
In addition, automobile companies will provide discounts, and buyers of electric vehicles will receive a one-time financial benefit.
The scheme is available only for BS-IV and older trucks and buses registered in Delhi-NCR.
Why Replacing Old Vehicles Is Important
According to the government, the scheme is expected to cover more than 1.9 lakh trucks and around 16,000 buses currently operating in Delhi-NCR.
Heavy vehicles are among the biggest contributors to air pollution in the region. Government data shows that BS-I to BS-IV vehicles release 67% more carbon monoxide (CO) and 97% more particulate matter (PM) compared to BS-VI vehicles.
Officials believe that upgrading the vehicle fleet is one of the most effective ways to improve air quality in the capital region.
Auto Industry Welcomes the Move
The automobile industry has welcomed the government’s decision and called it a positive step towards cleaner transportation.
Shailesh Chandra, President of SIAM, said the scheme would help speed up the adoption of environmentally friendly vehicles in Delhi-NCR and contribute to reducing pollution.
B. Srinivas, Managing Director and CEO of VE Commercial Vehicles, also praised the initiative.
He said the plan would support the modernization of truck and bus fleets while helping address one of the region’s most serious environmental challenges.
The new scheme is expected to play a key role in reducing emissions and promoting cleaner mobility across Delhi-NCR in the coming years.
