Bengaluru
In a pioneering move, Karnataka is set to establish its first government-certified Vehicle Scrapping Center in Devanahalli, aimed at scrapping vehicles older than 15 years. The state government has commissioned three private companies to set up Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facilities (RVSFs), with expected approval by the end of this month. Additionally, two more RVSFs are planned for Koratagere and Koppal in Tumkur district. As per guidelines from the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, vehicles older than 15 years, deemed unfit and polluting, are to be scrapped in RVSFs. Karnataka, despite having around 60 RVSFs across India, currently lacks such facilities. The directive entails the cancellation of government vehicles in operation for 15 years. Private vehicles exceeding 15 years and lacking a fitness certificate will be mandatorily scrapped. According to Additional Transport Commissioner (Enforcement South) Mallikarjuna C, private vehicles with a valid fitness certificate need not be canceled. Vehicle scrapping must adhere to specific criteria, including the absence of police cases and unpaid traffic fines. RVSFs are tasked with scrapping vehicles in an environmentally friendly manner, ensuring the scientific disposal of hazardous waste. Establishing these facilities involves an estimated cost of around ₹10 crore, with operations expected to commence in Devanahalli by the end of December. After scrapping, vehicle owners will receive a Certificate of Destruction (COD), which can be presented when purchasing new vehicles to avail of discounts. It is estimated that approximately 15 lakh vehicles in the state are eligible for scrapping, reflecting the significant impact this initiative will have on reducing pollution and promoting eco-friendly vehicle disposal practices.
