Delhi implements winter pollution curbs from November 1
The Delhi Government has introduced new restrictions including vehicle bans and mandatory work-from-home to tackle rising air pollution.
The Delhi Government has launched winter pollution control measures starting on Sunday, November 1, 2026. These restrictions, which include a ban on certain vehicles and construction activities, are intended to reduce emissions and dust across the capital.
From November 1 to January 31, 2027, motor vehicles registered outside Delhi that do not meet BS-VI emission norms are prohibited from entering the city. Exemptions apply to electric vehicles, CNG vehicles, and emergency services such as ambulances and police vehicles.
The plan also mandates that Delhi Government and private offices implement 50 per cent work-from-home arrangements until January 31. To manage traffic, Delhi Government offices will operate from 10:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., while Municipal Corporation of Delhi offices will run from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. through February 28.
Dust-generating demolition and outdoor civil construction activities are banned until January 31, though essential public infrastructure projects may continue under specific conditions. Additionally, fuel stations will deny petrol, diesel, or CNG to any vehicle without a valid Pollution Under Control Certificate.
To discourage private car use, parking charges at authorised municipal sites will double through February 28, excluding facilities managed by the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation. Enforcement will involve special teams, Automatic Number Plate Recognition cameras, and an AI-enabled Integrated Command and Control Centre.