Delhi government lifts ban on registrations of BS III two-wheelers

After several weeks of uncertainty following the sudden ban on registrations of two-wheelers not compliant with BS IV emission norms in the national capital, manufacturers like Royal Enfield, Bajaj Auto and Suzuki Motorcycles India can now breathe a sigh of relief after the state transport department’s decision to lift the ban.

Across the country, BS III norms are applicable on two-wheelers, while BS III and BS IV norms are applicable on passenger vehicles. From April 1, 2016, all new models of two-wheelers need to comply with BS IV norms. Moreover, existing models that are launched till March 31, 2016 need to upgrade to BS IV by April 1, 2017.

However, the Delhi government had banned the registrations of new two-wheelers that do not meet the BS IV emission norms starting from December 2015. This order had forced two-wheeler makers like Bajaj and Royal Enfield to halt sales of their newly launched models like the Bajaj V15 and the RE Himalayan in Delhi.

Commenting on the start of sales in Delhi, Rudratej Singh, president, Royal Enfield said: “We are delighted to announce the availability of our latest motorcycle - Himalayan, in New Delhi. The timing of the launch in Delhi could not have been better as all motorcycling enthusiasts in the region start frequenting the hills post Holi.” The company has launched the Himalayan at an on-road price of Rs 173,676 in the national capital.

Apart from the Himalayan, the recently launched Bajaj V15 and new Suzuki Access 125 can also be sold in Delhi now. Reportedly, the approvals by the transport department were given after several interventions by the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM).