Maharashtra Considers Ban on Petrol and Diesel Vehicles in Mumbai
The Maharashtra government is exploring a significant shift in urban transportation, as it evaluates the feasibility of banning petrol and diesel vehicles in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). The initiative, driven by the worsening air quality in Mumbai, could mark a pivotal moment for the city’s environmental and transport policies.
Panel to Study Feasibility
A seven-member committee, chaired by retired IAS officer Sudhir Kumar Shrivastava, has been tasked with investigating the potential ban. The group includes key stakeholders, such as the state’s transport commissioner, Mumbai’s joint police commissioner (traffic), and representatives from the Mahanagar Gas and Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM). The committee has three months to submit its report, according to a government resolution dated January 22.
The panel also has the authority to enlist experts and seek their feedback. The decision stems from a Public Interest Litigation in the Bombay High Court, which underscored the alarming contribution of vehicular emissions to Mumbai’s pollution levels.
Rising Pollution and Vehicle Growth
Mumbai’s air quality has been a growing concern, exacerbated by rapid urbanization and vehicle density. In 2024, over 2.79 lakh new vehicles were registered in the city, reflecting a nearly 10% increase from 2023. Across Maharashtra, the figure surpassed 28 lakh—a growth of over 12%.
This surge in vehicle numbers has compounded the challenge of reducing pollution. Despite inspections and warnings to construction sites by municipal authorities, factors like wind patterns, lower temperatures, and rampant infrastructure projects have worsened the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI).
Green Alternatives in Focus
Mumbai is pursuing a variety of green transit initiatives to counter its pollution problem. Projects such as the expansion of the Metro Network and the enhancement of Monorail operations are set to promote sustainable mobility. Additionally, BluSmart, an electric ride-hailing service, has announced its expansion into the city, further boosting the EV ecosystem.
The Navi Mumbai International Airport, set to open in 2025, is also expected to ease congestion and potentially lower emissions in the city.
Challenges and Implications
While a ban could address air quality concerns, it raises several questions. How will the committee address existing vehicle owners’ rights? What measures will be implemented for vehicles older than 15 years?
Automakers are also likely to feel the impact. Mumbai’s large market for automobiles contributes significantly to sales, and any policy shift could ripple through the industry.
Global Perspective
The proposal echoes international trends, such as Stockholm’s experiment with banning petrol and diesel cars in its city center. While Sweden’s capital deferred its plan amid industry pushback, it highlights the global challenge of balancing environmental goals with economic and social considerations.
As the Maharashtra government awaits the committee’s recommendations, the potential ban signals a strong step toward addressing Mumbai’s air quality crisis and embracing greener transit solutions.
