Delhi’s winter pollution curbs take effect: Non-BS-VI vehicle ban, 50% work from home

New Delhi: Delhi began enforcing a fresh set of anti-pollution measures on Sunday as the national capital braces for worsening air quality during the winter months. The restrictions include a ban on older vehicles registered outside Delhi, reduced office attendance and a halt to most construction and demolition activity.

Under the new rules, petrol and diesel vehicles registered outside Delhi that do not meet BS-VI emission norms cannot enter the capital. The restriction will remain in force until January 31, 2027. CNG and electric vehicles, ambulances, fire tenders, police vehicles and other notified essential vehicles are exempt.

Authorities have intensified checks at border entry points, while enforcement will also rely on automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) cameras and the AI-enabled Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC).

All dust-generating demolition and outdoor civil construction work has been prohibited. Essential public infrastructure projects may continue subject to prescribed conditions, while indoor finishing, plumbing and electrical work can proceed if dust-control norms are followed.

Parking charges at authorised lots across Delhi will double from November 1 to February 28. Parking facilities owned and managed by the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation are exempt from the increase.

Government and private offices in Delhi will operate with a maximum of 50 per cent staff physically present until January 31, with the rest working from home. Essential and emergency services are exempt.

To ease traffic congestion, Municipal Corporation of Delhi offices will function from 8.30 a.m. to 5 p.m., while Delhi government offices will remain open from 10 a.m. to 6.30 p.m.

Chief Minister Rekha Gupta had on Saturday urged residents, vehicle owners, construction agencies, institutions, resident welfare associations and commercial establishments to follow the restrictions. She said the Environment Department had completed preparations for implementation and that the Transport Department, Delhi Traffic Police, Delhi Pollution Control Committee, Municipal Corporation and other agencies had been directed to enforce the measures strictly.

The government said the curbs are aimed at controlling pollution at its source. Special enforcement teams will respond promptly to violations, with camera data, challans and action taken at construction sites monitored through the ICCC.

(Inputs from IANS)