Govt advances roll-out of BS-V and BS-VI norms for 4-wheelers

Concerned over increasing levels of pollution in the country, the government on Saturday said it has advanced the date for implementation of the roll out of Bharat Stage (BS) stage V and VI norms for four-wheelers by three years.

“Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has issued a draft notification for implementation of BS-V and BS-VI norms for the automobile sector, covering four wheeler category. The ministry has decided to advance the date for implementation of higher level emission standards,” an official statement said.

According to the roadmap earlier laid down by the Auto Fuel Policy, BS-V norms were to be implemented from April 1, 2022 and BS-VI from April 1, 2024, it added.

“However, the Minister of Road Transport and Highways is keen that the road transport sector should take a lead role in reducing the harmful effects of emissions on environment and climate change,” the statement added.

Accordingly, the ministry has decided to implement BS-V norms from April 1, 2019. BS-VI norms, which aim at substantial reduction in NOx/4C levels will be implemented from April 1, 2021, it added. This shows a firm commitment to play a major role in reducing vehicular emissions. Draft norms for two-and three-wheeler categories will be notified shortly with advanced timeline similar to the four wheeler category, it added.