Minister Sirsa Locks In GRAP-4 Curbs for Cleaner Delhi

Updated: December 28, 2025 10:24

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Delhi has made permanent two GRAP-4 restrictions: no fuel without a valid PUCC and a ban on entry of non-BS6 vehicles. Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa said the measures are crucial to combat severe air pollution. The move enforces stricter compliance, aiming to reduce vehicular emissions and improve Delhi’s air quality.

In a decisive move to tackle Delhi’s persistent air pollution crisis, Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa has confirmed that two critical restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-4) will now be enforced permanently. The announcement comes as the city continues to battle hazardous air quality levels, often hovering in the “severe” category.

Key Highlights

No Fuel Without PUCC: Petrol and diesel will not be dispensed to vehicles lacking a valid Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC). This measure ensures that only vehicles meeting emission standards can refuel, pushing owners to comply with pollution checks.

Ban on Non-BS6 Vehicles: Entry of vehicles below Bharat Stage VI (BS6) emission norms into Delhi will be permanently restricted. This applies especially to vehicles entering from outside the capital.

Permanent Enforcement: Sirsa emphasized that these restrictions, earlier part of seasonal GRAP-4 measures, will now remain year-round mandates.

Air Quality Context: Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) has consistently hovered around 390–400, dangerously close to the “severe” threshold. Authorities believe permanent curbs are essential to prevent worsening conditions.

Monitoring & Compliance: The government has directed fuel stations and enforcement agencies to strictly monitor compliance. Vehicle owners are being urged to renew PUCC certificates promptly to avoid inconvenience.

Context and Impact

The decision reflects Delhi’s urgent need for long-term structural measures against pollution rather than temporary seasonal interventions. Experts note that vehicular emissions contribute significantly to the capital’s toxic air, and stricter enforcement could help reduce particulate matter levels.

For residents, the move means greater accountability in vehicle maintenance and stricter adherence to emission norms. While some commuters may face short-term inconvenience, the broader impact is expected to be positive, aligning with Delhi’s push toward cleaner mobility.

Sirsa also highlighted that the government is closely monitoring weather conditions, including western disturbances, which influence pollution dispersion. The permanent curbs are part of a larger framework to ensure sustainable air quality management in the capital.

Sources: Times of India, Hindustan Times

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