With air pollution levels in Delhi typically rising during the winter season, the government is introducing stricter measures to improve air quality. From November 1, new restrictions are set to affect vehicles entering the national capital, fuel purchases and parking charges.
The measures aim to curb vehicular emissions and reduce pollution during the winter months. According to the reported guidelines, certain vehicles registered outside Delhi that do not meet BS-VI emission standards will face entry restrictions. In addition, vehicles without a valid Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC) will not be eligible to purchase petrol or diesel under the proposed ‘No Valid PUCC, No Fuel’ policy.
These changes are particularly important for commuters travelling to Delhi from neighbouring cities and states.
Which Vehicles Will Be Restricted From Entering Delhi?
According to an advisory attributed to the Delhi Traffic Police, vehicles registered outside Delhi that do not comply with BS-VI emission standards will be prohibited from entering the capital from November 1 to January 31.
This means owners of vehicles registered outside Delhi that fall below BS-VI standards may have to make alternative travel arrangements during the restriction period.
However, certain categories of vehicles will be exempt from these restrictions.
Which Vehicles Are Exempt From the Restrictions?
As per the reported advisory, vehicles complying with BS-VI emission standards will be allowed to enter Delhi. CNG-powered and electric vehicles will also be permitted, subject to the applicable exemptions and regulations.
The restrictions are primarily aimed at vehicles registered outside Delhi that do not meet the prescribed emission standards. Vehicle owners should check the latest official guidelines to confirm whether their vehicles qualify for entry.
Trucks From Other Cities Advised to Avoid Delhi
The Delhi Traffic Police has also issued directions concerning trucks that do not need to enter the capital.
Truck operators have been advised to use the Peripheral Expressways instead of entering Delhi, wherever possible. The move is intended to reduce traffic congestion and vehicular pollution in the city.
Drivers have also been advised to check the applicable regulations and vehicle requirements before starting their journeys to avoid inconvenience at entry points.
No Fuel Without a Valid PUC Certificate
Another significant measure is the proposed implementation of the ‘No Valid PUCC, No Fuel’ policy.
Under this policy, vehicles without a valid Pollution Under Control Certificate will not be supplied petrol or diesel at fuel stations in Delhi. The measure is intended to encourage vehicle owners to keep their emissions within prescribed limits and ensure compliance with pollution-control requirements.
According to the information provided, CNG car users will be exempt from this fuel restriction.
Vehicle owners should check the validity of their PUCC and renew it if necessary before visiting fuel stations.
Parking Charges Also Set to Increase
In addition to vehicle entry restrictions and fuel-related measures, parking charges are also set to increase as part of the broader efforts to control pollution.
The measures are aimed at discouraging unnecessary private vehicle use and reducing the number of vehicles on Delhi’s roads during the winter pollution season.
What Should Commuters Do?
People living in neighbouring cities who travel to Delhi regularly should take the following precautions:
- Check whether their vehicles meet the applicable BS-VI emission requirements.
- Keep their Pollution Under Control Certificate valid.
- Confirm the latest vehicle entry restrictions before travelling to Delhi.
- Truck operators should check whether they need to enter the city or can use the Peripheral Expressways.
- Stay updated on official announcements regarding parking charges and pollution-control measures.