Despite the implementation of strict anti-pollution measures (Graded Response Action Plan 4) in Delhi, which prohibits the entry of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers but the reality on the ground paints a troubling picture. With pollution soaring to extremely severe levels, India Today found that diesel trucks and buses were freely plying on Delhi's roads.
On Monday, the Supreme Court came down heavily on the government over the delay in implementing GRAP 4 measures, which includes a ban on entry of trucks, except those carrying essential items or using clean fuel, and a temporary halt on construction activities. GRAP 4 is activated when the AQI crosses 450.
BS-4 diesel trucks were being turned back at checkpoints by the Delhi and Noida police at the DND flyway, which connects the national capital with Noida. However, the narrative changed a short distance away at the DND MCD toll plaza, where diesel trucks were being given a free pass.
One such truck, NL01 L6303, registered on January 12, 2015 (BS-4), was seen plying in Delhi. "I am coming from Odisha and heading to Delhi. I paid Rs 200 to the police to get through," the truck driver told India Today sheepishly.
Another truck, NL01 AA1794, registered on September 20, 2006, had a pollution certificate from 2022. A third truck, NL01 AH3070, registered as a BS-3 vehicle, was also seen entering Delhi after passing through the toll booth.
In Delhi's Akshardham area, multiple diesel buses were seen operating. When a traffic police officer was questioned, his response was evasive.
"We don't know where these buses are coming from. You stop them, we will check... an investigation should be done later," the traffic cop said.
One diesel bus, en route from Delhi to Madhya Pradesh's Chhatarpur, was briefly stopped. "There are many such buses running. I apologise for the violation," the driver said.
In one instance, when traffic cops tried to stop a bus to inspect its papers, the driver managed to evade the authorities and sped away.
As per GRAP-4 guidelines, only trucks carrying essential goods, or operating on LNG, CNG, BS-VI, or electricity are allowed to enter Delhi. Non-essential light commercial vehicles registered outside Delhi are also barred from entry, except for EVs and CNG ones.
