New Delhi – The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has announced stringent new pollution control measures for Delhi-NCR, effective October 1. From this date, vehicles will be denied petrol or CNG at fuel stations if they do not hold a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate, marking a significant step in the region's battle against air pollution.
The directive, issued earlier on May 15, 2026 (Direction No. 101), was a key point of discussion during the 26th meeting of CAQM's sub-committee on monitoring and enforcement. Chaired by Rajesh Verma, the committee reviewed the readiness of various agencies to ensure strict and coordinated implementation across Delhi and the National Capital Region.
Enforcement and Technology Integration
Preparations for the installation of Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) systems at fuel stations were also assessed. This technology is expected to play a crucial role in identifying vehicles and enforcing the mandatory PUC certificate requirement at the point of refuelling.
Comprehensive Winter Pollution Strategy
The PUC mandate is part of a broader, multi-pronged strategy by the CAQM to mitigate winter pollution. Other key areas of focus include:
- Crackdown on Older Vehicles: Authorities are directed to intensify action against older and end-of-life (EoL) vehicles, including seizures and mandatory scrapping where applicable.
- BS-IV Vehicle Restrictions: Enforcement of Direction No. 88, which restricts the entry of BS-IV and older transport and commercial goods vehicles into Delhi, was also reviewed.
- Phasing Out Diesel Auto-Rickshaws: Progress on the phased elimination of diesel auto-rickshaws from NCR districts by December 31, 2026, was examined as part of efforts to reduce vehicular emissions.
- Stubble Burning Prevention: CAQM reviewed action plans prepared by Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh to prevent paddy stubble burning. Measures include promoting crop diversification, Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) techniques, efficient crop residue utilization, and extensive awareness campaigns among farmers.
- Industrial and Dust Control: Agencies are tasked with strengthening monitoring at major traffic congestion hotspots using Integrated Traffic Management Systems (ITMS) and ANPR-based challan systems. Compliance with stricter industrial emission standards for stone-crushing units and industries across NCR was discussed. Ahead of winter, additional mechanical road-sweeping machines will be deployed at identified dust hotspots, and inspections of construction and demolition sites, industries, and diesel generator sets will be intensified.
These coordinated efforts underscore the CAQM's commitment to improving air quality in Delhi-NCR as the winter season approaches, with a strong emphasis on compliance and enforcement across multiple sectors.