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No PUC? No Fuel: Delhi's Strictest Winter Pollution Rules Begin
1 Jul
Summary
- Vehicles need a valid PUC to get fuel starting November 1.
- Older non-Delhi vehicles face entry curbs from November to January.
- Offices mandate 50% staff work-from-home and double parking fees.
Delhi is implementing its most comprehensive winter pollution control plan, effective annually until February 28. Beginning November 1, vehicles must possess a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate to purchase petrol, diesel, or CNG. This rule is enforced via Automatic Number Plate Recognition cameras.
Starting November 1 and continuing through January 31, older vehicles from outside Delhi not meeting BS-VI norms will be restricted from entering the city, with exemptions for electric and CNG vehicles. During this winter period, parking fees at authorized facilities will double to discourage private vehicle use.
Offices in Delhi will operate with 50% of their staff physically present, while the remainder will work remotely. Construction and demolition activities will face tighter controls to mitigate dust pollution. Large commercial buildings and construction sites exceeding specific areas must install anti-smog guns or mist systems.
The government aims to address Delhi's recurring severe air quality through proactive measures. Previously, restrictions were often reactive. This advanced planning seeks to prevent the annual smog crisis from reaching emergency levels, as AQI has consistently been in 'Very Poor' and 'Severe' categories during winters.
