Supreme Court order puts brake on sales of tractors, construction vehicles

India is a large tractor market, with average monthly sale of 48,000 units

Tractor and construction equipment vehicle makers’ business has had a near-freeze across the country since April 1.

Regional transport offices (RTOs) in most states have refused to register these vehicles after the Supreme Court order of last month, which stopped sales of two-wheelers, three-wheelers, passenger and commercial vehicles meeting only BS-III emission standards. 

The order was not meant for tractors, combines and heavy construction vehicles, which have different emission norms. However, the RTOs have declined to allow their registration. It was late last week when  Odisha and Gujarat resumed doing so. 

“Registration and sales of tractors are completely stalled. RTOs do not want