Delhi Cracks Down on Pollution: Fuel Denied Without PUC, Old Vehicles Barred
Delhi Imposes Strict Anti-Pollution Curbs: No Fuel Without PUC, BS-6 Vehicles Only, Work-From-Home for 50% Employees,: To combat rising air pollution levels, the Delhi government has enforced a series of stringent restrictions starting today, aimed at reducing vehicular emissions and improving air quality. The measures come amid warnings that the Air Quality Index (AQI) may cross the “severe” mark of 400 again in the coming days.
Under the new rules, vehicles without a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate will not be allowed to purchase petrol or diesel at fuel stations across the capital. Special enforcement teams have been deployed at all petrol pumps to verify PUC certificates. Anticipating the restrictions, heavy crowds were witnessed at pollution testing centers on Wednesday.
In a major move, the Delhi government has also barred the entry of non-BS-6 vehicles registered in other states. Only BS-6 compliant vehicles from outside Delhi will be permitted to enter the city. Since the BS-6 emission norms came into effect on April 1, 2020, a limited number of out-of-state vehicles, including those from Haryana, meet the criteria. Authorities have warned that strict action will be taken against violators.
Public transport, vehicles carrying essential goods, and emergency services have been exempted from the BS-6 restriction. Additionally, the order does not apply to CNG and electric vehicles.
Due to these curbs, congestion is expected to increase in the Delhi Metro and DTC buses from today, as more commuters shift away from private vehicles.
To further reduce pollution, the Delhi government has mandated that 50% of employees in all government and private offices work from home starting Thursday. Essential services such as health and sanitation are exempt from this rule. In relief measures, registered construction workers affected by the construction ban will receive financial assistance of ₹10,000.
Meanwhile, pollution levels remain a serious concern. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s average AQI stood at 338, categorised as “very poor.” Although strong winds over the past two days have slightly reduced pollution levels, forecasts suggest that weakening winds over the next four to five days could worsen air quality again.
Authorities have urged residents to limit outdoor activities and follow government advisories as Delhi continues to battle severe air pollution.
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