Delhi has implemented Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in response to a significant decline in the national capital's air quality. The Delhi Traffic Police has issued an advisory outlining specific vehicle restrictions, urging motorists to adhere strictly to these regulations to mitigate pollution.
The measures, which took effect on November 1, 2026, aim to control vehicular emissions, a major contributor to the city's poor air. Commuters are advised to check their vehicle's emission standards, ensure they possess a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate, and drive responsibly. Additionally, residents should monitor traffic updates and planned diversions before commencing their journeys.
Vehicles Permitted Under GRAP Stage II
According to the Delhi Traffic Police advisory, the following vehicle categories are allowed to operate under specified conditions:
- BS-VI Petrol and Diesel Cars: Delhi-registered vehicles meeting BS-VI emission standards are permitted, provided they have a valid PUC certificate.
- Electric Vehicles (EVs): All electric cars and other eligible electric vehicles are allowed without restriction.
- CNG Vehicles: Vehicles running on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) are permitted.
- Inter-state and Inter-city Buses: Electric, CNG, and BS-VI diesel buses are allowed, subject to the conditions detailed in the advisory.
- Commercial Goods Vehicles: Light, medium, and heavy commercial vehicles that meet BS-VI standards or operate on CNG or electricity can function, adhering to applicable restrictions and documentation.
- Emergency Vehicles: Ambulances, fire service vehicles, and police vehicles are exempt from restrictions.
Vehicles Restricted or Banned Under GRAP Stage II
Several categories of vehicles face prohibitions or significant restrictions:
- Delhi-Registered BS-III and Older Petrol/Diesel Cars: These vehicles are explicitly prohibited from operating within Delhi.
- Out-of-Delhi BS-IV and Older Petrol/Diesel Cars: Vehicles registered outside Delhi that are BS-IV or older petrol/diesel models are also restricted.
- Older Diesel Buses: Inter-state and inter-city buses running on BS-IV diesel or older standards are restricted.
- Older Commercial Vehicles: Commercial vehicles meeting BS-IV standards or older are prohibited under the specified rules.
- Heavy Trucks Not Destined for Delhi: Such vehicles are required to divert through peripheral expressways and are not allowed to enter the capital.
- Vehicles Without Valid PUC Certificates: Any vehicle lacking valid pollution-control documentation will be subject to enforcement action and entry restrictions.
Motorists are strongly advised to verify their vehicle's eligibility against the latest government notification, as exemptions and conditions may vary by specific vehicle category and ongoing updates to the GRAP framework.