Delhi will strengthen its No PUC No Fuel policy from October 1 as the government prepares tougher measures to tackle vehicular emissions and winter air pollution across the national capital. Vehicles without a valid Pollution Under Control Certificate can be denied fuel at filling stations.Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa said enforcement of the Delhi No PUC No Fuel policy will be intensified. The government plans an awareness campaign alongside stronger compliance checks, while PUC centres are expected to be upgraded to make certification more efficient.

The pollution-control strategy will also target end-of-life vehicles. Around 500 petrol pumps equipped with Automatic Number Plate Recognition cameras are expected to support enforcement by identifying vehicles that have crossed their permitted operational life.Vehicle fitness is another major component of the campaign. Authorities plan fitness checks for around 2.5 lakh vehicles through three Automated Testing Stations as Delhi works to reduce emissions from vehicles that fail prescribed standards.

Delhi Plans Tougher Curbs To Control Winter Air Pollution

Delhi is also preparing restrictions beyond vehicle emissions as part of its winter pollution strategy. Construction and demolition activities are expected to face a complete ban between December 10 and January 20, when severe pollution conditions frequently affect the capital. Authorities will focus on pollution and traffic hotspots while monitoring different emission sources. Staggered office timings are also being considered to ease traffic congestion and reduce pollution during peak commuting hours.

The wider NCR is moving toward stronger PUC enforcement as well. Under the framework beginning October 1, fuel stations will verify pollution certificates before dispensing fuel, with technology such as ANPR systems supporting vehicle identification and compliance checks.The measures are designed to shift Delhi’s approach toward preventive pollution control before winter conditions worsen air quality. For motorists, maintaining a valid PUC certificate will remain essential for avoiding disruption while refuelling and complying with emission regulations.