Over 20,000 vehicles penalized as Delhi ramps up anti-pollution crackdown

In a sweeping crackdown to curb vehicular emissions choking the capital’s air, Delhi Police have issued more than 20,000 challans under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)-2 since October 19. The intensified drive comes as the city braces for another season of toxic smog.

Additional Police Commissioner Satya Vir Katara was quoted as saying by ANI that teams are targeting vehicles violating pollution norms. “GRAP-2 has been in effect since October 19. So far, over 20,000 challans have been issued for lack of valid Pollution Under Control Certificates (PUCC), each carrying a fine of ₹10,000,” Katara said.

The crackdown also includes turning back diesel and petrol commercial vehicles below BS-III standards that are not registered in Delhi. “We appeal to the public to cooperate with the Delhi Traffic Police so that action can be effectively taken against polluting vehicles,” Katara added.

In parallel, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has announced a ban on the entry of all non-Delhi-registered BS-III and below commercial goods vehicles from November 1 — a move aimed at addressing the alarming rise in pollution levels across Delhi and the National Capital Region.

The CAQM said in its statement that vehicular emissions remain one of the biggest contributors to Delhi’s poor air quality during the winter months. However, as a transitional measure, BS-IV compliant goods vehicles will be permitted to enter Delhi until October 31, 2026.

There will be no curbs on commercial vehicles registered in Delhi or those running on CNG, LNG, or electricity, as well as BS-VI compliant petrol and diesel vehicles, which can operate year-round.

Officials say the measures reinforce Delhi’s broader campaign to reduce vehicular pollution and align with long-term strategies under the Graded Response Action Plan, activated each winter to combat the capital’s recurring air crisis.