Ban On Old Vehicles, WFH And Fines Up To Rs 20,000: Delhi Announces Fresh Anti-Pollution Curbs

As air pollution levels continued to deteriorate, pushing Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) into the severe category this week, the Delhi government has announced a fresh set of stringent anti-pollution measures aimed at reducing emissions across the city. The new curbs come amid growing health concerns as hazardous air quality persisted for three consecutive days.

The measures will take effect from Thursday and will operate alongside GRAP 4 restrictions already imposed by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM). These restrictions were triggered after Delhi recorded severe air quality for three straight days starting Saturday, December 13, prompting authorities to intensify efforts to control pollution sources.

One of the key steps announced is a shift to hybrid working and work-from-home arrangements for both government and private sector employees. Delhi Labour Minister Kapil Mishra said that all offices must implement work-from-home from Thursday, failing which action will be taken against violators. However, he clarified that several exemptions have been granted for essential services and frontline workers to ensure that critical operations continue uninterrupted.

In addition to workplace restrictions, the Delhi government has enforced a ban on vehicles carrying construction materials from entering the national capital. The move is intended to curb dust pollution, which is a major contributor to deteriorating air quality during winter months. Authorities have also made it mandatory for all vehicles entering Delhi to carry valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificates, with violators facing penalties.

The latest curbs also include restrictions on older vehicles, stricter monitoring of polluting activities, and fines of up to Rs 20,000 for non-compliance with prescribed norms. Enforcement agencies have been instructed to ensure strict implementation of the rules, with increased checks at city borders and within Delhi.

Officials said the measures are aimed at providing immediate relief to residents as pollution levels remain dangerously high. The Delhi government has urged citizens to cooperate by limiting unnecessary travel, avoiding activities that add to pollution, and adhering to the guidelines issued by authorities.

While similar measures have been implemented in the past during periods of severe air pollution, officials stressed that the current situation demands heightened vigilance. The government said the restrictions will remain in place until air quality shows sustained improvement, and further decisions will be taken based on ongoing monitoring of pollution levels and weather conditions.