NEWS – Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) scrapped 550 old buses as per the National Vehicle Scrappage Policy mandated by the Centre.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Age Criteria: Government vehicles over 15 years old must be deregistered and scrapped.
• Specific BMTC Action:
  • 550 buses older than 15 years and those with more than 900,000 kilometers traveled.
  • Tender called to sell the scrapped buses.

ABOUT THE POLICY

• Effective from – April 1, 2022
• Fitness Tests:
  • Mandatory for heavy commercial vehicles from April 1, 2023
  • Phased testing for all other vehicles from June 1, 2024
  • Required after 20 years for private vehicles
  • Required after 15 years for commercial vehicles
• End of Life Vehicles: Declared for vehicles failing fitness tests or not renewing registration certificates
• Incentives: Up to 25% road tax rebate for personal vehicles. Up to 15% rebate for commercial vehicles + Waiver of registration fees on new vehicle purchases + Advisory for auto manufacturers to provide a 5% rebate for scrapping certificates. Disincentives for Older Vehicles Pollution: Old vehicles are significantly more polluting
• Re-registration Fees: Increased fees for vehicles 15 years or older to discourage continued use.

Goals of the Policy

• Environmental Benefits:
  • Reduce pollution.
  • Promote scientific recycling.
• Safety and Efficiency:
  • Enhance passenger safety.
  • New vehicles are more fuel-efficient and cost-effective in maintenance.
• Economic Impact:
  • Support the auto sector.
  • Create job opportunities.
  • Formalize the vehicle scrappage industry.
  • Boost the steel industry with cost-effective raw materials.