The National Green Tribunal on Friday passed an order stating that no new diesel vehicles should be registered in Delhi due to the rising air pollution and smog in the national capital. Diesel-run vehicles are considered major contributors to air pollution.

The NGT has directed both the Centre and the state government to not purchase any diesel vehicles for their departments, reported PTI. It also questioned the Delhi government's odd-even number plate formula for private vehicles, saying it may not achieve the desired purpose and make people purchase two cars.

On Tuesday, the Delhi government announced that the odd-even number plate scheme will be tested from January 1-15 and will be applicable from 8 am to 8 pm every day, except for Sunday. According to the government’s formula, cars with odd-numbered number plates will be allowed to ply on the roads on odd dates, while those with even-numbered number plates will run on even dates. All cars will be allowed on the roads on Sunday.