Delhi Eases Fuel Ban on Older Vehicles

Delhi Eases Fuel Ban on Older Vehicles

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Delhi Eases Fuel Ban: How Vehicle Owners Can Get Back Seized or Sold Cars

The Delhi government has slightly relaxed its fuel ban rule on old diesel and petrol vehicles, bringing some relief to vehicle owners. However, for many who had to sell their cars or had them seized, the change has also brought a sense of regret.

What Was the Ban?

Back in 2015, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) banned diesel vehicles older than 10 years and petrol vehicles older than 15 years in Delhi-NCR to reduce pollution. In 2025, the government went a step further by cutting off fuel supply to these vehicles, which upset many people.

Now, after facing public backlash and practical issues, the Delhi government has decided to partially roll back this strict rule.

Can You Get Your Seized Vehicle Back?

Yes, but only in some cases and under certain conditions.

Here’s how you can check and apply for release:
  1. Go to the Delhi Transport Department portal or the VAHAN website.
  2. Enter your vehicle registration number to check its status—whether it has been stored, scrapped, auctioned, or deregistered.
  3. If it’s listed as seized and stored in a yard, apply for its release through the concerned RTO or enforcement office.
  4. If approved, you’ll have to pay storage/parking fees and ensure the vehicle passes both a fitness test and pollution check before it can be re-registered.

Note: If the vehicle has already been scrapped or fails the required tests, it can’t be returned.

What If You Sold the Vehicle?

If you sold your vehicle—especially to someone outside Delhi due to the original ban—you may still have a chance to get it back:

  1. Track down the current owner using transport department records.
  2. Ask to buy it back (only if it hasn’t been scrapped or deregistered).
  3. Make sure it qualifies for re-registration in Delhi under the new rules.

Final Word

This partial rollback is a relief for some but offers no guarantees. Authorities will review every request individually. Only vehicles that meet the updated emission and fitness standards will be allowed back on the road.

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