Car makers seek MoST intervention

According to an AIAM member, the association was still studying the implications of the April 29 order of the Supreme Court. Meanwhile, the automobile component manufacturers have already sought review of the supreme court order stating that the statutory dates for meeting Euro-1 and Euro-2 norms be changed to April 1, 2000 and April 1, 2002 respectively.

Terming the pull-ahead of the statutory dates as “uncalled for”, ACMA president Surinder Kapur had said that the component manufacturers have written letters to the prime minister, cabinet secretary and industry secretary seeking immediate intervention in resolving the crisis that has emerged out of the judgement.

“We have asked them to seek a lead time for the component makers to meet the norms. We are willing to meet the norms but need some time to develop technology,” Kapur said.

As per the supreme court order, all non-commercial vehicles in the national capital region should comply to Euro-2 emission norms by April 1, 2000. Besides, beginning June 1, 1999, only 250 diesel-run vehicles and 1,250 petrol-driven vehicles complying with Euro-1 norms would be registered in the region every month.

The apex court had further stated that that its directives are only an interim arrangement until further orders. It further granted liberty to the Indian government to seek variation or modification of the order.

Meanwhile, officials of key ministries met here today to discuss the fallout of the supreme court’s order laying stringent timeframe for vehicles to meet Euro emission norms in the national capital region.

The emergency meeting, to chalk out the next move of the government regarding the apex court order, was attended by officials of surface transport, petroleum, industry and environment ministries, official sources said.

The meeting is also understood to have discussed on approaching the court to seek “clarification” on the order, which is likely before the court vacation begins on May 14.