The Delhi Transport Department has issued a fresh public notice warning vehicle owners about strict action against overage cars. If you own a diesel vehicle older than 10 years or a petrol vehicle older than 15 years, you must keep it in a private parking space. Authorities have clarified that such vehicles found plying on roads or even parked in public spaces outside homes will be impounded and sent for scrapping without any further warning.
Strict Rules for Old Vehicles in Delhi
The government is strictly following the orders from the National Green Tribunal and the Supreme Court to reduce pollution levels in the capital. Vehicles classified as “End-of-Life” (ELVs) include diesel cars over 10 years old and petrol cars over 15 years old. The new notice emphasizes that parking these cars on public roads is illegal. The department has also stated that owners do not need to go to Noida or Ghaziabad anymore, as Delhi now has its own authorized scrapping units to handle the process.
Scrapping Benefits and New Car Discounts
If your vehicle is seized and scrapped, you will receive the scrap value based on the current metal prices and the weight of the car. The government issues a Certificate of Deposit which is valid for 3 years. This certificate provides financial relief when you decide to purchase a new vehicle.
- Motor Vehicle Tax Discount: You get up to 20% off for new petrol/CNG vehicles and 15% for diesel vehicles.
- Registration Fee Waiver: A 100% waiver on the registration fee is often provided for new vehicles bought with a scrapping certificate.
- EV Conversion: Owners also have the option to convert old cars to Electric Vehicles, though this costs between ₹4 lakh to ₹6 lakh.
Enforcement and Official Statements
The crackdown has already been intense, with 7,789 vehicles impounded since October 1, 2025, under various pollution control guidelines. Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa has recently ordered a probe into scrapping facilities to ensure vehicle owners are not overcharged for towing or handling. While there is public anger regarding the age-based ban instead of a fitness-based one, officials maintain that the current laws allow no exceptions for older vehicles on public land.
