Punjab Roadways suspends Volvo service after Delhi’s emissions ban

Punjab Roadways has temporarily suspended Volvo bus services to Delhi Airport after diesel-powered vehicles below BS-VI standards were banned from entering the National Capital Territory (NCT).

This suspension has caused distress to many passengers, especially those who rely on Volvo buses that run directly to the airport.

Punjab Roadways Ludhiana depot general manager Navraj Batish confirmed that the suspension of Volvo bus services was due to the buses being of old BS-IV model and the buses were no longer allowed to enter Delhi by December 14.

“The suspension dealt a significant financial blow to the warehouse, which suffered losses of approx. ₹4.5 lakh revenue is generated every day. Batish said the Ludhiana depot operates 12 Volvo buses on the route and serves around 240 passengers a day, many of which are currently experiencing major disruptions.

Shivani Ahuja, a frequent commuter to Delhi Airport, shared her disappointment: “I have never faced such a hassle before. I had to catch the plane urgently, but when I got to the bus stop, I learned that the ban had been lifted. “Now I have to scramble to find alternatives at the last minute.”

Meanwhile, Shamsher Singh, general secretary of Punjab Roadways/Punbus/PRTC contract workers union, expressed his concern saying, “The government should have considered alternative solutions for commuters before implementing such a policy. “This is quite disappointing, especially since both Delhi and Punjab are ruled by the same party.”

Notably, the Delhi transport ministry implemented the ban on November 15 to improve the severe air quality in the city.

The restrictions, which are part of Phase III of the Phased Response Action Plan (GRAP), ban BS-III and BS-IV diesel vehicles, other than electric and CNG buses, and vehicles with All India tourist permits from entering Delhi until December 14. fine up to ₹20,000.

However, Batish noted that other Punjab Highways were not affected by the ban and continued to operate as usual. Additionally, public bus services of Volvo and PRTC are also exempt from the ban due to the newly added BS-VI buses in the mileage plan.