New Journey, Clean Start This Rath Yatra, Let’s Scrap the Old and Embrace the Eco Way

New Journey, Clean Start: This Rath Yatra, Let’s Scrap the Old and Embrace the Eco Way

Rath Yatra is more than just a festival; it's a spiritual journey that celebrates renewal, progress, and the divine movement of life. Every year, as Lord Jagannath begins his symbolic chariot ride with his siblings Balabhadra and Subhadra, devotees across India and the world find inspiration to begin fresh journeys - in life, in faith, and in responsibility.

This year, let’s take a step towards renewal, not just spiritually, but environmentally. Let Rath Yatra 2025 mark your commitment to a cleaner, greener future - by responsibly scrapping old, polluting vehicles that harm our air, land, and health.

The Spiritual Symbolism of Rath Yatra - A Festival of New Beginnings

The Rath Yatra is deeply symbolic. The wooden chariots built anew every year represent rebirth. The journey from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple reflects progress and transformation. Just as the Lord embarks on a new path each year, we too are encouraged to leave behind the old and embrace the new.

But what if we take this symbolic act and give it real-world meaning?

What if this year, we let go of something tangible - something that pollutes, slows us down, and harms our environment, like old, outdated vehicles?

Why It's Time to Say Goodbye to Old Vehicles

India has over 10 million vehicles that are older than 15 years, many of which still ply the roads without fitness certifications. These vehicles are among the top contributors to air pollution, releasing toxic gases and harmful particulate matter.

Problems with Old Vehicles:

• Excessive carbon emissions

• Low fuel efficiency

• Higher risk of road accidents

• Poor resale value

• Expensive maintenance

Just like worn-out chariots are replaced for the Lord’s Rath Yatra, your vehicle too deserves a respectful farewell - one that doesn’t end up polluting landfills or being resold illegally.

Vehicle Scrapping - The Responsible, Eco-Friendly Way

Vehicle scrapping is the process of dismantling and recycling an end-of-life vehicle (ELV) in an eco-safe manner. This ensures that the vehicle doesn’t pollute any further, and its materials (metal, rubber, glass, etc.) are reused instead of being wasted.

In 2021, the Government of India launched the Vehicle Scrappage Policy to promote this eco-friendly initiative, encouraging owners to retire their old cars and opt for newer, safer, and cleaner models.

Key Benefits of Scrapping:

• Get a scrapping certificate and potential discounts on the new vehicle purchase

• Avoid paying high re-registration and fitness test costs

• Help in reducing air pollution and traffic noise

• Contribute to the circular economy by recycling usable materials

• Create space, safety, and peace of mind

Scrapping as a Sacred Responsibility

This Rath Yatra, think of vehicle scrapping not as disposal, but as a sacred responsibility. Just as we offer prayers and clean our homes during festivals, scrapping your polluting vehicle can be a devotional act for Mother Earth - the ultimate chariot that carries us all.

Think about it:

Would Lord Jagannath ride a rusted, smoke-belching chariot through the streets of Puri? Then why should we?

By scrapping your old vehicle, you’re helping ensure cleaner air for the Rath Yatra devotees, less road congestion, and a greener environment for the generations to come.

Government Policies & Incentives to Support You

To make the shift easier, the government offers incentives for vehicle owners who choose to scrap:

Voluntary Vehicle Scrappage Policy Highlights:

• Up to 25% rebate on road tax for new vehicles

• Discounts offered by some manufacturers on the scrapping certificate

• Waiver on registration fees for new vehicle purchase

• GST benefits for commercial vehicles

Encouragement for state-wise scrappage centres for smooth processing

Many cities are setting up RVSFs (Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facilities), ensuring the process is legal, ethical, and safe.

How You Can Begin This Green Journey

Getting started is simple. Here's how you can make your contribution to a greener Rath Yatra:

• Identify your old vehicle (over 15 years old or heavily polluting).

• Find a registered vehicle scrapping centre in your area.

• Submit documents like RC, insurance (if any), and Aadhar.

• Get your vehicle deregistered and receive a scrapping certificate.

• Use the certificate for discounts on your new vehicle.

A Journey of Faith - and Sustainability

The chariot of Jagannath doesn’t just move on roads; it moves hearts, minds, and entire communities. Let us take inspiration from this holy festival to renew not only our souls but our environment too.

This Rath Yatra, make a promise:

“I will scrap my old vehicle responsibly, I will choose cleaner roads for my family, I will be part of India’s green tomorrow.”

Because every new journey begins with letting go.

Let’s Start Together

Looking to scrap your vehicle the right way? Connect with authorised scrapping facilities and be part of the green movement today.