Delhi pollution plan: Restrictions on goods vehicles, check when BS-VI and EV rules will apply

Delhi government will restrict the entry of goods vehicles in the capital to only BS-VI compliant, CNG and electric vehicles from November 1 as part of its Air Pollution Mitigation Action Plan, 2026. Non-essential traffic inflow will also be regulated under the new framework aimed at reducing vehicular emissions and improving air quality.

Chief minister Rekha Gupta unveiled the Air Pollution Mitigation Action Plan, 2026 on Friday, outlining a structured roadmap to tackle pollution from key sources including vehicular emissions, road dust, construction activity, industrial discharge and biomass burning.

The plan identifies 11 priority sectors with defined responsibilities, timelines and real-time monitoring systems. Gupta said the initiative is “not just a policy announcement” but an enforcement-driven campaign supported by resources, technology and strict oversight.

Stricter rules for vehicles and fuel compliance

The government will enforce a “No PUC, No Fuel” policy using ANPR cameras and digital tracking systems. Authorities are also preparing special measures for high-pollution days, including possible staggered office timings, work-from-home directives and tighter restrictions on polluting vehicles.

A similar restriction on goods vehicle entry was attempted last year but was later deferred for a year.

Push for public transport and electric mobility

To reduce dependence on private transport, the government plans a major expansion of public transport. The bus fleet is projected to increase to 13,760 by 2028–29, with a focus on electric buses.

The plan also includes stronger integration between metro networks, regional transit systems and last-mile connectivity options such as e-autos and feeder buses. In addition, 32,000 EV charging points are planned over the next four years, alongside a new EV policy prioritising two-wheelers, commercial vehicles and electrification of government fleets.

Traffic congestion and hotspot management

Congestion at 62 identified hotspots will be addressed through infrastructure upgrades and an intelligent traffic management system. Smart parking reforms are also part of the strategy.

Dust, construction and industrial emissions under scanner

To curb dust pollution, authorities will deploy mechanical road sweepers, water sprinklers and anti-smog guns, monitored through GPS-enabled systems and central dashboards. Construction activity will be tracked using AI-enabled C&D Portal 2.0.

Industrial units will be brought under stricter monitoring through mandatory online emission tracking systems, with non-compliance potentially leading to closures.

Waste management and landfill deadlines

The government has set timelines for clearing major landfill sites, including Okhla by July 2026, Bhalswa by December 2026 and Ghazipur by December 2027.

Monitoring and enforcement framework

A centralised green war room and an expanded air quality monitoring network will be established to ensure real-time tracking and enforcement of pollution control measures.