Delhi pollution curbs: Older vehicles banned, 50% work from home as winter restrictions come into effect

Delhi's winter pollution curbs came into force on Sunday, restricting the entry of older petrol and diesel vehicles registered outside the national capital, mandating 50 per cent work-from-home attendance in government and private offices and curbing construction activities, even as transporters warned of a possible 15-20 per cent hike in bus fares and disruptions in the supply of essential commodities.

Also Read: Trump says U.S. can strike Iran’s nuclear sites in 10 minutes, but adds he is in no hurry

The restrictions, aimed at controlling air pollution during winter, will remain in force until January 31, 2027. They cover non-BS-VI vehicles registered outside Delhi, including tourist and contract carriage buses, while thousands of trucks and other commercial vehicles are also likely to be affected.

Delhi vehicle ban may push up intercity bus fares

Transporters estimate that intercity bus tickets may become 15 to 20 per cent costlier if fewer vehicles are available on routes connecting Delhi with other states. The curbs cover non-BS-VI buses operating under tourist and contract carriage permits, apart from other affected vehicles registered outside the city.

Truck restrictions may affect vegetables, milk and other supplies

The All India Motor Transport Congress (AIMTC) estimates that around 2.5 lakh goods vehicles could be affected by the restrictions. Transporters said delays and changes to delivery routes could put pressure on supplies reaching Delhi’s wholesale markets.

Apples are transported to the capital from Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir, while potatoes arrive from Uttar Pradesh, Punjab and Haryana. Onions come from states including Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. Milk, eggs and poultry products also depend heavily on road transport from neighbouring states. Operators said delays could affect arrivals at markets such as Azadpur and Ghazipur and increase freight charges. 

Which vehicles can enter Delhi until January 31?

The entry restrictions apply from November 1, to January 31, 2027, to petrol and diesel vehicles registered outside Delhi that fall below BS-VI emission standards. Vehicles using CNG or electricity are exempt, as are ambulances, fire tenders and specified emergency services. Vehicles that meet BS-VI norms can enter subject to other applicable requirements.

Delhi-registered buses and commercial goods vehicles are not covered by this particular entry restriction, although other pollution-control rules may apply. Trucks travelling through the region without deliveries in Delhi have been advised to use the Eastern and Western Peripheral Expressways.

Transport department estimates indicate that more than 10 lakh vehicles in neighbouring NCR areas could be affected. Enforcement will involve traffic teams, automatic number plate recognition cameras and an AI-enabled command and control centre. Violations may attract electronic challans.

No PUC, no fuel, 50% work from home and construction curbs

Under the ‘No PUC, No Fuel’ rule, petrol pumps and CNG outlets in Delhi will deny fuel to vehicles without valid Pollution Under Control certificates. About 500 fuel stations have automatic number plate recognition systems to check registration details and certificate status.

Government and private offices have been directed to follow arrangements under which 50 per cent of employees work from home, with essential services exempt. Municipal Corporation of Delhi offices will function from 8.30 am to 5 pm, while Delhi government offices will operate from 10 am to 6.30 pm.

Parking charges at authorised facilities will be doubled during the wider winter plan, which runs until February 28, 2027. Parking sites managed by the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation are exempt.

Dust-generating demolition and outdoor construction work will be barred from November 1 to January 31, with exemptions for specified essential infrastructure projects. A wider ban on construction and demolition is scheduled from December 10 to January 20. Indoor finishing, plumbing and electrical work may continue subject to dust-control requirements.

Also Read: 40 villas, Rs 1.8 cr annual rent: Rajasthan's IAS-IPS couple faces corruption probe after 'throwaway' resort deals