Delhi Air Pollution Crackdown: Government Restricts Entry of Non-BS-VI Vehicles Under GRAP, Imposes INR 20,000 Fine Starting Today
Delhi has intensified its air pollution control measures by restricting the entry of non-BS-VI vehicles under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). Starting today, vehicles that fail to meet BS-VI emission norms may be denied entry or fined up to INR 20,000, as authorities aim to curb vehicular pollution and improve air quality.
Delhi, December 18: Delhi’s air pollution has once again reached alarming levels, especially during the winter months. As a result, authorities have taken stricter action to reduce harmful emissions that degrade air quality. Delhi continues to suffer from poor AQI, deteriorating largely due to vehicular pollution, among other factors. Older vehicles are responsible for emitting higher levels of particulate matter and toxic gases into the air. To protect public health, the government has intensified measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).
As part of these efforts, Delhi has begun tightening restrictions on vehicles entering the city from neighbouring states. Officials say controlling the entry of highly polluting vehicles is crucial to preventing further deterioration in air quality, particularly when weather conditions trap smog over the region for prolonged periods. Kerala Launches Its First E-Bike Rental Service at Kozhikode Railway Station, Offering Low-Cost, Eco-Friendly Last-Mile Travel for Commuters and Tourists.
Non-BS-VI Vehicles Face INR 20,000 Fine at Delhi Borders
Starting immediately, non-BS-VI vehicles registered outside Delhi are not allowed to enter the national capital. The restriction applies to private cars that do not comply with Bharat Stage VI (BS-VI) emission norms, which are the most stringent standards currently in force. Vehicles failing to meet these norms will be stopped at border checkpoints and turned away. In some cases, enforcement agencies may seize non-compliant vehicles found operating within Delhi.
Key points of the new vehicle restriction include:
- Only BS-VI compliant vehicles from outside Delhi are permitted to enter the city.
- Vehicles without a valid Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC) will not be allowed to refuel at petrol or diesel stations.
- Police and transport officials have increased checks at major entry points to ensure compliance.
- Violators may face penalties, including fines of up to INR 20,000, or be denied entry altogether.
The move is aimed at reducing vehicular emissions during a critical period when air quality often slips into the “severe” category. Authorities believe that stricter enforcement, combined with public cooperation, can help bring pollution levels under control. Toll Tax Plazas No More! Nitin Gadkari Announces Barrier-Free Electronic Toll System To End Long Queues on Highways; Here’s How It Will Work.
While the measures may cause inconvenience to some motorists, officials stress that they are necessary to safeguard health and improve Delhi’s air quality in the long run.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 18, 2025 11:14 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).