Delhi-NCR tightens pollution curbs, ends exemption for older vehicles

The Delhi-NCR region's air quality management system has been strengthened with the removal of long-standing exemptions for older emission-standard vehicles, marking a significant shift in pollution control enforcement. Under the revised Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), vehicles meeting BS-IV emission standards and below will no longer be spared from movement restrictions during pollution episodes.

The change specifically eliminates exemptions previously granted to light and medium goods vehicles (LGVs and MGVs) at GRAP Stage III, when air quality deteriorates to severe levels. Additionally, trucks and heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) that fail to meet newer emission standards will now face curbs at GRAP Stage IV, the most severe pollution alert level.

This expansion of vehicle restrictions represents a more comprehensive approach to managing the region's chronic air pollution challenges. By broadening the scope of movement curbs, authorities aim to reduce vehicular emissions—a significant contributor to seasonal smog and poor air quality in Delhi-NCR.

The revision aligns with India's National Green Tribunal directives and reflects growing pressure on state governments to implement stricter measures during winter months when pollution levels typically spike. Transporters and fleet operators are expected to upgrade their vehicles to newer emission standards or face operational disruptions during high pollution episodes going forward.