As Delhi’s air quality slips into the severe zone during winter, the capital activated emergency traffic curbs under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). From Thursday, only BS6-compliant vehicles registered
outside Delhi will be allowed to enter the city when GRAP Stage III or IV is in force, a move that could keep nearly 12 lakh vehicles off Delhi’s roads during peak pollution days.
Is BS6 Entry Rule Applicable Under All GRAP Stages?
No. The BS6-only entry restriction applies only during GRAP Stage III and Stage IV, which are triggered when air quality reaches the severe and severe-plus categories. There is no blanket ban under GRAP Stage I or II.
What Exactly Is New Vehicle Entry Rule During GRAP III And IV?
When GRAP Stage III or IV is active, non-BS6 vehicles registered outside Delhi are barred from entering the capital. Only BS6-compliant vehicles from outside Delhi are permitted entry during these high-pollution phases.
Why Has Delhi Government Activated This Measure Now?
Delhi’s winter weather traps pollutants close to the ground, sharply worsening air quality. Vehicular emissions contribute up to 40 per cent of particulate pollution in traffic-heavy corridors. Authorities say restricting higher-emission vehicles during severe pollution episodes is necessary to bring down pollution levels and reduce health risks.
Which Vehicles Can Enter Delhi During GRAP III And IV?
These vehicles may continue to operate unless additional restrictions are announced: BS6-compliant vehicles registered outside Delhi and vehicles registered within Delhi that comply with emission norms and carry a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate
Which Vehicles Are Barred During GRAP III And IV?
These vehicles will not be permitted entry into the capital while severe pollution measures remain active: non-BS6 vehicles registered outside Delhi and older and higher-emission vehicles, if specifically restricted under tightened GRAP enforcement
Does PUC Rule Apply Only During GRAP III And IV?
No. The PUC requirement applies across all GRAP stages. Vehicles without a valid PUC certificate risk being denied petrol or diesel at fuel stations across Delhi, regardless of the GRAP stage or vehicle registration.
How Will These Rules Be Enforced?
The Delhi government deployed automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) cameras at petrol pumps and key entry points. These systems flag vehicles without valid PUC certificates and those violating entry restrictions, allowing automated enforcement without manual checks.
How Many Vehicles Could Be Impacted By This Rule?
Around 12 lakh (1.2 million) vehicles registered outside Delhi could be affected when GRAP Stage III or IV is active.
Has Delhi Used Similar Vehicle Curbs Earlier?
Yes. Earlier in 2025, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) barred older non-BS6 goods vehicles from entering Delhi unless they were registered within the city. That restriction was rolled out in phases and has now been expanded during severe pollution episodes.
How Long Will These Restrictions Remain In Force?
The BS6-only entry rule will remain in effect as long as GRAP Stage III or IV continues. Authorities review air quality daily and may tighten or relax measures depending on pollution trends.
What Should Drivers Do To Avoid Fines Or Disruption?
Drivers should check the current GRAP stage before travel, ensure their vehicle meets BS6 norms, carry a valid PUC certificate and plan routes accordingly.
