Delhi Imposes Strict Vehicle Restrictions from December 18 Amidst Deepening Pollution Crisis

Delhi has introduced stricter measures aimed at curbing the escalating air pollution crisis within the capital. Effective from December 18, the city will bar non-BS-VI compliant vehicles originating from outside Delhi from entering its limits.

This directive, announced by Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa, specifies that only BS-VI compliant vehicles will be permitted entry until further notice.

In a parallel move, vehicles lacking a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate will be denied fuel at petrol pumps across Delhi from the same date. Minister Sirsa confirmed that automated cameras installed at fuel stations would identify non-compliant vehicles, ensuring robust enforcement. He noted that over 8 lakh vehicle owners have already faced penalties for not possessing valid PUC certificates.

The urgency of these measures is underscored by alarming pollution levels. According to CPCB data, areas like Anand Vihar and Gazipur have recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 410, categorising them as severe. AIIMS and India Gate also reported very poor AQI levels at 397 and 380, respectively, highlighting the immediate health risks to residents.