Air pollution has become a matter of major concern for Delhi, and the issue gets far worse in the winter. Among various other measures to curb pollution, this year the national capital is set to ban vehicles not compliant with the latest, BS6 emission norms.
On 20 October 2026, as part of a Winter Action Plan (WAP), the Delhi government will not permit vehicles of emission standards below BS-VI, registered outside Delhi, to enter the city from 1 November to 31 January. WAP will be valid until 28 February, though. There are also restrictions on construction and demolition work to further tackle the seasonal spike in air pollution during this period.
The ban on older vehicles is likely to impact not only Delhi residents but also travellers driving into the national capital, especially frequent commuters from surrounding states. Delhi government is also ensuring vehicles undergo timely fitness checks and have a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate. Vehicles without a valid PUC certificate will not be allowed to refuel in the national capital.
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What might come as some relief is that Delhi has not yet enforced its earlier-used odd-even rule. Compliant BS-VI vehicles can still be used throughout the month regardless of their registration number. However, should the situation get worse than expected, this temporary rule remains a possibility.
Delhi government has also announced 50% work from home and staggered office timings, which should reduce vehicular use and traffic congestion, effectively bringing some relief in air pollution. It is also suggesting residents to use public transport instead of private vehicles, particularly electric buses and metro, and in situations where not possible, to choose carpooling instead of driving individually.
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The curbs on older vehicles are likely to see a sharp uptick in use of public transport services, especially trains and interstate buses. Whether any measures are being taken to improve the frequency and scale of public transport during the Winter Action Plan’s implementation period remains to be seen. While major inconveniences are expected in transport during this period, Gupta tried to justify the WAP, saying it is people’s right to breathe clean air and that every action matters to provide that.
