Notification regarding Mass Emission Standards for BS-VI
Pollution has been rightfully a growing concern in the country off late. This matter and the relevant numbers have lead the government to undertake many measures to help not only control but also reduce pollution in India. One of the most contentious among these endeavours, the accelerated timeline for Bharat Stage VI norms, has now officially been notified to be applicable from 1 April, 2020. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MORTH) had invited suggestions and recommendations in February 2016 about BS VI implementation. However, stakeholders recommended a delay in the rollout of BS VI emission norms. Interestingly, reports also claimed that Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) made the case for the delay by pronouncing that the involved industries would need an investment of nearly Rs 1.5 lakh crore in order to adhere to the proposed timeline. However, MORTH issued a notification in the Gazette of India on 16 September wherein it is stated that the new emission norms are to be introduced in accordance with the timeline that was originally proposed. The notification also details the mass emission standards for BS VI.