Maharashtra Govt Explores Ban on Petrol, Diesel Vehicles in Mumbai

The initiative seeks to permit only electric and compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles in the Mumbai metropolitan region.

February 03, 2025. By Aishwarya

The Maharashtra government has recently established a seven-member committee to evaluate a proposal aimed at mitigating Mumbai's deteriorating air quality by prohibiting petrol and diesel vehicles within the city.

The initiative seeks to permit only electric and compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles in the Mumbai metropolitan region. This action follows a directive from the Bombay High Court, which, in early January, instructed the state to form an expert panel to assess the feasibility of phasing out fossil-fuel-powered vehicles.

The court highlighted vehicular emissions as a primary contributor to air pollution, noting the alarming density of vehicles congesting Mumbai's roads. Since 2020, the city has experienced a 12 percent increase in its air quality index, indicating worsening conditions. Factors such as escalating traffic congestion and ongoing infrastructure projects have been identified as contributing elements.

The proposed ban could have significant implications for automobile manufacturers, residents, and businesses, especially considering the current limitations in electric vehicle charging infrastructure and the ongoing development of metro rail networks. The committee is expected to present its findings within three months.

This move aligns with broader global trends, as several countries and regions have announced plans to phase out fossil-fuel vehicles in the coming decades to combat pollution and address climate change.

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