New Delhi: Commuters entering the national capital are facing stricter checks from Sunday, November 1, as the Delhi government rolls out a series of pollution-control measures to tackle deteriorating air quality during winter. The new regulations target older vehicles, strengthen emission monitoring and introduce additional restrictions to reduce traffic-related pollution.
Under the revised Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), petrol and diesel vehicles registered outside Delhi that do not comply with Bharat Stage VI (BS-VI) emission standards will be prohibited from entering the city until January 31, 2027. The restrictions are expected to affect motorists travelling from neighbouring areas, including Noida, Gurugram, Ghaziabad and Faridabad.
Delhi Traffic Police has clarified that BS-VI-compliant vehicles, CNG vehicles, electric vehicles and those covered by government exemptions can continue operating, subject to applicable regulations. However, vehicles without valid Pollution Under Control Certificates (PUCC) will face restrictions. Non-compliant interstate buses, tractors and locally modified vehicles will also be subject to the prescribed rules. Trucks passing through Delhi without having the city as their destination must use the Eastern or Western Peripheral Expressway or other designated routes.
Strict Vehicle Checks and No PUC, No Fuel Policy
Authorities have strengthened enforcement at Delhi’s entry points, deploying traffic personnel and technology-based monitoring systems to identify vehicles violating emission norms. Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras and digital verification systems will support inspections, while electronic challans may be issued against offenders.
The government has also introduced the ‘No PUC, No Fuel’ policy, under which vehicles without valid pollution certificates will be denied fuel at authorised stations. Around 500 fuel stations have been equipped with ANPR technology to help enforce the regulation.
Work-From-Home and Construction Restrictions
The wider winter pollution-control plan also includes work-from-home arrangements covering 50 per cent of employees in government and private offices, subject to prescribed conditions and exemptions. Staggered government office timings and increased parking charges at designated facilities are intended to discourage unnecessary private vehicle use.
Dust-generating demolition and outdoor construction activities will face restrictions between November 1 and January 31, with certain essential infrastructure projects exempted under specified conditions.
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has appealed to residents to cooperate with the government’s efforts to control pollution and encourage greater use of public transport.
The vehicle-entry restrictions will continue until January 31, 2027, while Delhi’s broader winter pollution action plan is scheduled to remain in effect until February 28, 2027. Motorists have been advised to verify vehicle eligibility and carry valid documents before travelling. For traffic-related assistance, residents can contact 011-25844444 or 1095.
