JAMMU: Secretary, Transport, Avny Lavasa, today asked the department for effective implementation of the Registered Vehicle Scrapping Policy in Jammu & Kashmir.
She exhorted upon the officers to generate awareness about the policy and encourage the vehicle owners to take advantage of the benefits outlined under the policy.
The Secretary emphasised the importance of widespread publicity and awareness campaigns to ensure that the general public, especially vehicle owners of old, unfit vehicles, are fully informed about the opportunity to scrap their vehicles through Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facilities (RVSF).
The government order issued in this regard outlines the guidelines for the implementation of the Motor Vehicle (Registration and Functions of Vehicle Scrapping Facility) Rules, 2021, in the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir. These guidelines aim to reduce pollution, enhance road safety and foster a circular economy through responsible vehicle recycling.
The policy targets vehicles that are 15 years old or more, as well as those that are unfit for road use due to accidents, disasters or natural wear and tear. Vehicle owners can voluntarily scrap their vehicles at a Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facility (RVSF) and receive a Certificate of Deposit (COD), which will serve as a key document for availing of incentives on purchase of new vehicles. The owners of vehicles that are scrapped will benefit from fiscal incentives, including exemptions in road tax (up to 26% for non-transport vehicles and 16% for transport vehicles) if they opt to buy new vehicles within a specified period.
The Secretary Transport informed that the scrapping process will be carried out in a scientifically sound manner to promote recycling and minimize environmental impact, in line with the Environment Protection (End of Life of Vehicle) Rules, 2025. The implementation of the policy is expected to create a thriving business ecosystem in the vehicle scrapping and recycling industry. This will not only contribute to the economic development of Jammu & Kashmir but also create significant employment opportunities in various sectors including automotive dismantling, recycling, and logistics.
To facilitate the scrapping process, the government will provide incentives and land bank support for setting up RVSFs across Jammu & Kashmir. The existing industrial policies will offer fiscal incentives for establishment of these facilities, which will play a key role in modernizing the local auto industry. All RVSFs will need to comply with the Motor Vehicle (Registration and Functions of Vehicle Scrapping Facility) Rules, 2021 and undergo environmental clearance from the Jammu & Kashmir Pollution Control Committee.
Avny Lavasa asked the department to undertake a comprehensive communication campaign targeting the vehicle owners across all regions of Jammu & Kashmir. She also stressed that the initiative would not only help in reducing pollution but would also create a ripple effect by stimulating business growth, generating employment and improving the efficiency of the automotive sector in the region.
“The Registered Vehicle Scrapping Policy is a forward-thinking initiative that will benefit both vehicle owners and the economy. We must engage with the public and businesses to make this a success,” said the Secretary. She assured that the Transport department would continue to monitor the progress and ensure smooth implementation of the policy.
The Transport Department of Jammu & Kashmir is committed to improving road safety, reducing traffic congestion and supporting environmental sustainability.
