The Centre’s air quality panel, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), has postponed the enforcement of the fuel ban on end-of-life (EOL) vehicles in Delhi-NCR until 1 November 2025, following appeals from the Delhi government.
Originally set for 1 July, the initiative aims to block fuel sales to overage vehicles and reduce pollution in the capital.
Technology-driven enforcement
Fuel stations in Delhi have installed Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras to implement the ban.
These cameras scan number plates and check registration, age, and fuel type in real time via the VAHAN database.
If the system flags a vehicle as EOL, it alerts staff to deny fuel and reports it for possible impounding or scrapping.
The system aims to remove older, polluting vehicles to improve air quality in the National Capital Region.
The government’s response & delay
Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa urged CAQM to delay the rollout due to operational and infrastructural challenges.
Sirsa also labelled the plan ‘premature and potentially counterproductive’, noting concerns from the public and logistical hurdles in enforcing the ban effectively.
The CAQM reviewed these concerns and delayed implementation to allow time for infrastructure readiness and public awareness.
Rollout across key districts
The new launch date of 1 November 2025 will now see a simultaneous rollout in Delhi and five adjacent high-vehicle-density districts:
- Gurugram
- Faridabad
- Ghaziabad
- Gautam Budh Nagar
- Sonipat
Authorities plan to complete ANPR camera installation in these districts by 31 October, paving the way for region-wide implementation.
Once operational, the system is expected to become a critical tool in regulating EOL vehicles and curbing vehicular emissions.
The deferred rollout provides an opportunity for smoother implementation and stakeholder engagement.
As Delhi-NCR battles persistent air pollution, this initiative represents a significant step toward long-term environmental improvement and public health protection.
Proper enforcement of the fuel ban could set a precedent for other cities facing air quality challenges in India.
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