Taking a significant step under pollution control measures, the Delhi government has banned the entry of non-BS VI commercial goods vehicles into Delhi starting November 1. This order has been issued based on the directives of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM). Only BS-VI, CNG, LNG, and electric vehicles will be permitted to enter Delhi.
Delhi Pollution: To control the rising air pollution in Delhi, the government has taken strict measures. From November 1, 2025, the entry of commercial goods vehicles registered outside Delhi that do not meet BS-VI emission standards will be completely banned in Delhi. This directive has been implemented based on the orders of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM). The Transport Department stated that only BS-VI, CNG, LNG, and electric vehicles would be allowed to enter Delhi, while BS-IV diesel vehicles have been granted a limited exemption until October 31, 2026.
Government's Strict Step for Pollution Control
Every year, between October and January, Delhi's air becomes toxic. Due to stubble burning, weather conditions, and vehicular emissions, the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaches hazardous levels. In response, the government has taken strict preemptive measures this time. Now, only commercial vehicles conforming to BS-VI standards will be permitted to enter Delhi.
CAQM states that a major cause of air pollution in Delhi is old diesel vehicles. These vehicles emit large quantities of carbon, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter, increasing the concentration of toxic elements in the air.
Ban to be Implemented from November 1
A public notice issued by the Delhi Transport Department clearly states that strict surveillance will be enforced at Delhi's borders from November 1. After this date, no non-BS VI commercial goods vehicle registered outside Delhi will be able to enter the capital. Only vehicles that comply with BS-VI emission standards will be allowed into Delhi.
This order will primarily apply to diesel trucks and goods vehicles operating in Delhi-NCR. The department has requested all transport companies and vehicle owners to upgrade their vehicles to the BS-VI category as soon as possible to avoid any inconvenience.
Which Vehicles will be Exempted
The government has granted exemptions to some vehicles in this order. Commercial goods vehicles already registered in Delhi will be excluded from this ban. Additionally, BS-VI compliant diesel vehicles, CNG, LNG, and electric vehicles will be able to enter Delhi without any restrictions.
Furthermore, BS-IV commercial diesel vehicles registered outside Delhi have been granted a limited-time exemption until October 31, 2026. This means that after this date, only BS-VI compliant vehicles will be allowed to enter Delhi.
What are BS-VI Standards
BS-VI, or Bharat Stage-6 emission standards, are regulations designed to control pollution emitted by vehicles. These standards are similar to Euro-6 emission norms, which are adopted internationally. Vehicles with BS-VI engines produce significantly less smoke compared to older vehicles. These engines also have lower sulfur content, which reduces air pollution.
The government believes that if only BS-VI compliant vehicles operate in Delhi and NCR, there will be a significant reduction in the concentration of toxic particulate matter in the air.
Why This Decision is Necessary
Delhi's air becomes suffocating every winter. As the weather cools, the wind speed decreases, preventing pollutants from dispersing and causing them to accumulate in the atmosphere. Simultaneously, the effects of stubble burning and industrial smoke also intensify. As a result, the AQI often reaches 400 to 500, which falls into the severe category.
Considering this, the government has emphasized controlling vehicular emissions. Implementing BS-VI standards will lead to a substantial reduction in the emission of harmful gases such as nitrogen oxides and particulate matter.
Joint Initiative by CAQM and Delhi Government
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) and the Delhi government are continuously working in this direction. Every winter, the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is implemented, under which measures such as banning construction activities, closing schools, and prohibiting old vehicles are taken.
This time, the government has taken a proactive initiative to curb pollution by imposing an early ban on non-BS VI vehicles. According to officials, vehicle checks at the borders will be intensified, and heavy fines will be imposed on those who violate the rules.
