To tackle rising air pollution, the Delhi government has introduced stricter rules starting December 18, 2025.
Vehicles without a valid Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC) cannot get fuel at petrol pumps.
Non-BS-VI vehicles registered outside Delhi are barred from entering the city.
50% of employees in government and private offices must work remotely.
Grape-4 restrictions imposed by the Air Quality Management Commission remain in effect.
These measures aim to reduce pollution levels and improve air quality in the capital.
Exemptions for Emergency and Essential Services
Not all vehicles and workers are affected. Ambulances, fire tenders, police vehicles, and other emergency response units are exempt from these restrictions.
The Delhi government clarified that emergency and frontline workers, including hospital staff and departments involved in air pollution control, will continue working without interruption.
This ensures that public safety and essential services are not affected.
Why These Measures Were Needed
Delhi’s air quality has been in the severe category for three consecutive days, prompting the government to act.
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) recorded an average AQI of 334 at 7 am on Thursday, which is considered very poor.
Along with existing Grape-4 restrictions, these new measures—such as the PUCC fuel ban and mandatory work-from-home—are designed to curb pollution and protect public health.
