Delhi Implements New Winter Pollution Rules from November 1: Older Vehicles, PUC Certificates and Work-from-Home Measures

**New Delhi, November 1, 2026:** The Delhi government has implemented a series of new winter pollution-control measures from November 1 to reduce air pollution during the winter season. The measures include restrictions on older vehicles, enforcement of the 'No PUC, No Fuel' policy, work-from-home arrangements and restrictions on dust-generating construction activities. The restrictions are intended to remain in effect until January 31, 2027, under the winter pollution-control programme. **Restrictions on Older Vehicles** Vehicles registered outside Delhi that do not meet BS-VI emission standards are prohibited from entering the national capital during the specified period. Electric vehicles, CNG vehicles and emergency vehicles such as ambulances and fire tenders are among the exempted categories. The restriction is intended to reduce emissions from older and more polluting vehicles entering the city. **No PUC, No Fuel Rule** Under the revised enforcement measures, vehicles must carry a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate to obtain fuel at petrol pumps in Delhi. Authorities will use enforcement teams and automatic number plate recognition cameras to identify vehicles that do not comply with the requirements. Violations may result in electronic challans. **50 Per Cent Work-from-Home Arrangement** Government and private offices have been directed to operate with up to 50 per cent of their staff physically present, while the remaining employees work from home. Essential services are exempt from the arrangement. The government has also introduced staggered office timings to reduce traffic congestion during peak hours. **Construction Activities Restricted** Dust-generating demolition and outdoor construction activities have also been restricted during the winter pollution-control period. Specified essential public infrastructure projects may continue under prescribed conditions. Authorities will monitor construction sites and take action against activities that violate pollution-control requirements. **Objective of the Winter Pollution Plan** Delhi experiences significant air-quality challenges during the winter months due to a combination of local emissions, weather conditions, vehicle pollution and other contributing factors. The new measures aim to reduce pollution sources and improve air quality across the national capital. Residents and commuters have been advised to follow the applicable rules and check official government updates for further instructions.