Delhi Pollution Curbs Kick In: Old Vehicle Ban, 50% Work From Home

New restrictions to curb rising air pollution in Delhi came into effect on Sunday, November 1, including a ban on older vehicles registered outside the national capital and mandatory work from home for 50 per cent of staff in government and private offices.

Under the new rules, petrol and diesel vehicles registered outside Delhi that do not meet BS-VI emission standards cannot enter the city.

The restriction will remain in force until January 31, 2027. Authorities have intensified inspections at Delhi’s border points to ensure compliance.

Delhi CM Rekha Gupta urged residents, businesses and construction agencies to follow the pollution curbs. She directed concerned departments to ensure strict enforcement.

The restrictions ban dust-generating demolition and outdoor construction, with exemptions for essential infrastructure projects. Indoor finishing and repair work can continue under dust-control norms.

CNG and electric vehicles, ambulances, fire tenders and police vehicles are exempt.

Government and private offices will limit physical attendance to 50 per cent until January 31, with the remaining staff working from home. However, Essential services will receive exemptions.

Parking fees at authorised lots will double from November 1 to February 28, except at DMRC facilities.

To reduce congestion, MCD offices will operate from 8.30 AM to 5 PM and Delhi government offices from 10 AM to 6.30 PM.

The Environment Department will monitor enforcement through special teams, Automatic Number Plate Recognition cameras and an AI-enabled Integrated Command and Control Centre. Authorities will track violations, challans and action taken at construction sites, with enforcement teams instructed to respond promptly to complaints.

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