As winter tightens its grip and air quality plunges into the 'severe' zone, Delhi authorities have rolled out a stringent set of measures targeting one of the city's primary pollution culprits: vehicles. Effective from 18 December 2025, fresh regulations are now in force, compelling car owners, particularly those with older models, to comply or face significant disruptions.
Strict 'No PUC, No Fuel' Policy Enforced at Pumps
In a decisive move, fuel stations across the national capital have been instructed to deny petrol and diesel to any vehicle that fails to present a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate. This directive, issued by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), means drivers must carry a current PUC document when refuelling. Vehicles operating within Delhi's limits without this valid proof of compliance will simply be turned away at the pump. The clear message for car owners is to ensure timely renewal of their PUC certificates to maintain uninterrupted access to fuel and keep their vehicles on the road.
Older, High-Emission Vehicles Face Entry Restrictions
Beyond the fuel rule, Delhi has also intensified restrictions on older petrol and diesel vehicles that do not meet the latest Bharat Stage VI (BS-VI) emission norms. During periods of severe air pollution, many of these older cars are now barred from entering the city. This restriction applies not only to vehicles arriving from neighbouring states like NCR but also to older cars already registered in Delhi. Authorities are deploying border checkpoints and internal patrols to identify and turn back non-compliant vehicles, especially on days when pollution peaks.
Enhanced Penalties and Impact on Daily Commute
Enforcement has been ramped up, with traffic police and transport department teams conducting rigorous spot checks. They are leveraging digital records and camera systems to verify a vehicle's PUC status and registration age. Penalties for violations are severe and can include denial of entry, hefty fines, or even orders to take the vehicle off the road immediately.
The ripple effects of these rules are already visible across Delhi. Owners of older vehicles are adapting by switching to public transport, shared mobility options, or app-based taxi services. Meanwhile, a rush to renew PUC certificates is being observed at authorised centres. The CAQM has clarified that these measures are part of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) and are specifically activated during severe pollution episodes to curb vehicular emissions swiftly.
Delhi's toxic winter air is a complex mix of local emissions, regional factors, and adverse weather. While not all sources can be controlled instantly, vehicle emissions are one area where immediate regulatory action is possible. The current rules underscore a push for immediate compliance with emission standards, making valid documentation and cleaner vehicles non-negotiable for driving in the capital during the polluted winter season.
