AITP only for long distance purpose: SC on diesel vehicles

Continuing the clamp down on diesel vehicles plying on Delhi roads to curb pollution, the Supreme Court on Tuesday said the All India Taxi Permit (AITP) would be given only if the applicant gives an undertaking that taxi will only be used for long distance purpose.

Meanwhile, the apex court has also banned fresh registration of diesel cars and taxis in the NCR area.

The top court had on Monday stated that the ban on registration of diesel vehicles over 2,000cc will continue in the national capital.

The court had, however, agreed to relax its order banning diesel-run all-India tourist permit taxis that ferry BPO employees in Delhi-NCR region.

The interim order banning registration of diesel-run vehicles with engine capacity of 2000 CC and above was imposed till March 31 and thereafter extended till April 30.

The court is likely to hear an automakers' plea after the summer vacation.

The Centre told the apex court, which was hearing carmakers' plea against the ban on diesel cars in Delhi, that the courts cannot ban diesel vehicles if they are adhering to prescribed standards.

Backing the carmakers, the Centre told the apex court that vehicles were not the only source of pollution in Delhi, besides not diesel the CNG and petrol cars also pollute.