Story by Bahari Duniya | Written by Ranjan Sharma
Very Poor AQI hits Delhi: petrol stations refuse fuel without PUCC
As Delhi’s air quality slips back into the Very Poor category, the city administration has taken stronger measures to curb pollution by making two key GRAP‑4 restrictions permanent. This move comes in response to rising pollution levels and adverse weather conditions that threaten public health. Under the revised framework, vehicles without a valid PUC will be barred from refueling, and non‑BS‑VI compliant vehicles will face entry restrictions, reflecting a more stringent approach to controlling emissions and safeguarding residents from the hazardous smog enveloping the capital.
Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa announced on Saturday that fuel stations across the city will no longer supply petrol to vehicles without a valid Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC). Previously enforced only during severe pollution episodes, this restriction will now remain permanent until further notice, signaling a firm step by the government to control emissions and protect public health amid worsening air quality in the capital.
Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa announced that two GRAP‑4 restrictions are now permanent, including PUCC vehicles without a valid certificate will not get petrol, strengthening measures against rising pollution in the capital.
Delhi entry alert: BS‑VI norms now mandatory
Delhi Environment Minister announced that vehicles entering the city from outside must adhere to Bharat Stage VI (BS‑VI) emission norms. Those not meeting the standards will face entry restrictions, as part of efforts to cut emissions from older, high-polluting vehicles. The measure, along with PUCC compliance rules, aims to control air pollution and protect public health during the critical winter months.
Delhi Environment Minister Sirsa said vehicles from outside Delhi that are below Bharat Stage VI (BS‑VI) will face entry restrictions, reflecting a tougher stance on inter-state vehicular pollution and reinforcing measures to protect air quality in the capital.
Delhi weather conditions under close watch as pollution rises
The government’s move comes as authorities monitor adverse weather conditions. Delhi Environment Minister Sirsa highlighted the possible impact of a Western Disturbance, which could trap pollutants near the ground and further deteriorate air quality. Officials are keeping a close watch on meteorological changes to implement timely pollution-control measures and protect public health in the capital.
AQI slips to ‘very poor’ category
Delhi’s air quality is deteriorating due to unfavourable weather conditions. As per CPCB data, the Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 390 at 6 pm on December 27, categorizing the city’s air as ‘Very Poor’ and highlighting the urgent need for pollution-control measures.
Such air quality poses serious health risks, especially for children, the elderly, and people with respiratory conditions. Experts recommend limiting prolonged outdoor exposure and wearing masks during periods of high pollution to reduce health hazards and protect vulnerable groups.
Thick smog and fog have worsened air pollution, reducing visibility and disrupting daily life across Delhi. Authorities report that enforcement teams are actively ensuring compliance with measures like the ‘No PUC, No Fuel’ rule to help control emissions and mitigate the impact of the deteriorating air quality.
Stage III pollution control measures implemented in Delhi
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has activated Stage III measures under GRAP, imposing restrictions on construction work and certain industrial operations that add to particulate pollution. These steps aim to reduce emissions, curb air quality deterioration, and protect public health amid worsening pollution levels in Delhi.
The latest measures are part of the Delhi government’s broader push to strengthen environmental governance. The Delhi Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, approved Rs 100 crore for rejuvenating water bodies across the city. Out of nearly 1,000 water bodies, around 160 fall under direct Delhi government jurisdiction, reflecting a focus on sustainable urban management and environmental conservation.
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Officials state that the combined measures aim to tackle pollution at its source while enhancing Delhi’s long-term environmental resilience. The steps are part of ongoing efforts to combat recurring winter smog, reduce emissions, and protect public health amid deteriorating air quality in the capital.