Delhi's New Pollution Rule Hits Roads: Over 3,700 Vehicles Challaned on Day One

New Delhi: Delhi's new "No PUC, No Fuel" rule came into force as part of a wider drive to control rising air pollution in the capital. Within the first 24 hours, Delhi Traffic Police and transport teams checked thousands of vehicles.

More than 3,700 vehicles were challaned for lacking a valid Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC). Nearly 570 vehicles entering from outside the city were turned back at border checkpoints.

What about the rush for PUC certificates?

The clampdown triggered a big surge in demand for pollution certificates. In just one day, authorities issued more than 61,000 new PUC certificates across the city.

Approximately 5,000 vehicles were inspected at border points on the very first day, and 217 non-destined trucks were diverted to the Eastern and Western Peripheral Expressways.

On the first day, 3,746 vehicles were challaned in Delhi over the past 24 hours for not possessing valid PUC certificates, while 568 non-compliant or non-destined vehicles were turned back from border points during intensified enforcement.

Are there other pollution measures in place?

Alongside the "No PUC, No Fuel" mandate, Delhi has imposed bans on entry for non-BS-VI vehicles from outside the city and restrictions on construction activities. Many offices have been advised or ordered to adopt work-from-home arrangements to cut down daily commuter traffic.

What do officials say next?

Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa said enforcement will continue in the coming days. Officials are urging vehicle owners to stay updated with PUC requirements to avoid penalties and fuel refusal. The government sees this as part of a long-term strategy to cut down harmful emissions and improve air quality for residents.

On Thursday, Sirsa also conducted surprise inspections at several petrol pumps, including those at the Delhi-Gurugram border and Janpath.

How are checks being done at petrol pumps?

Under the rule, fuel retailers must verify a vehicle's PUC status before refuelling it. At many petrol stations, traffic police and transport officials are stationed to ensure enforcement. Vehicles without a valid certificate are denied fuel, prompting long queues at PUC testing centres as owners rush to update their documents.

Why is the rule being enforced now?

The move comes as Delhi's air quality hits severe and hazardous levels during the winter season. Vehicular emissions are a major contributor to smog and toxic air in the city.

The government activated Stage-IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-4), introducing strict steps like mandatory PUC checks before fuel is dispensed, and tighter controls on older, high-polluting vehicles.