Prime Minister Modi released the vehicle scrap policy on August 13, 2021, aiming to address the issue of old vehicles and promote sustainable practices. However, the Chandigarh administration appears to be falling short in fully adhering to this policy. In various government offices under the administration, decades-old Kadam vehicles, aged more than 20 years, remain parked in their lots, causing a significant challenge in terms of vehicle parking in the City Beautiful Chandigarh.
Despite the pressing issue of vehicle parking and the availability of the new scrap policy, department heads seem focused on merely confiscating old vehicles without ensuring proper disposal or adherence to the scrap policy. The parking lot at the District Deputy Commissioner’s office in Sector 17 faces a severe space crunch, compounded by the presence of over two dozen Hero Honda bikes and other aged vehicles gathering dust. These vehicles, neglected by officials, are not only deteriorating but have also fallen victim to theft, with mischievous elements stealing parts from them.
The administration issued orders on March 28, 2023, to prepare a list of vehicles aged more than 15 years and discussed sending notices for their scrapping. The government’s instructions stipulate that vehicles completing their lifespan (15 years or more) will be condemned after due process. However, despite the administration’s commitment to a new scrap policy, valuable vehicles worth crores are decaying in various office premises.
A significant concern arises as the government aims to implement the new scrap policy on the road while officials overlook old vehicles parked within and behind office premises. Many places showcase a range of vehicles, from JCB machines and old Ambassador cars to tractor trolleys and contemporary vehicles, all left in a dilapidated state. Despite the absence of legal disputes hindering their auction, these vehicles, collectively valued at hundreds of crores, are deteriorating daily, turning into mere garbage. The discrepancy between the government’s commitment to scrap policies and the negligence of valuable assets raises questions about the effective implementation of sustainable practices.