The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has announced a ban on non-BS-VI commercial goods vehicles registered outside Delhi from entering the city starting November 1.

The move is part of the government’s broader effort to reduce vehicular emissions during the winter months, when pollution levels in Delhi typically reach hazardous levels.

The decision is in line with the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), a pollution-control framework that activates specific curbs depending on air quality levels. The CAQM’s latest amendment aims to cut emissions from diesel-powered trucks and carriers that are among the biggest contributors to Delhi’s pollution.

The official notification states, “WHEREAS, the Commission with a view to abate air pollution caused by high volume of transport/commercial goods vehicles entering into Delhi, in exercise of its powers conferred under section 12(1) of the Commission for Air Quality Management in National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas Act, 2021, issued Statutory Direction No. 88 dated 23.04.2025, directing for a strict ban on entry of all transport/commercial goods vehicles viz. LGVs, MGVs, and HGVs, other than BS-VI, CNG, LNG, and EVs, into the NCT of Delhi w.e.f. 01.11.2025 except such vehicles registered in Delhi.”

The new order clarifies that Delhi-registered vehicles, both private and commercial, will continue to operate if they meet at least BS-III standards. However, commercial vehicles from outside the city that do not comply with BS-VI norms will be barred from entry.

There will be no restrictions on Delhi-registered commercial vehicles, BS-VI diesel vehicles, or BS-IV diesel vehicles until October 31, 2026, according to the public notice.

Vehicles powered by CNG, LNG, or electricity will remain fully exempt, as they are considered cleaner alternatives.

Why the ban is needed

The decision was finalised during a CAQM meeting on October 17, where officials approved stronger measures to control air pollution in the National Capital Region (NCR) ahead of winter.

Every year, as temperatures drop and wind speed slows, pollutants get trapped close to the ground, turning Delhi’s skyline grey with smog. The burning of crop residue, industrial emissions, and diesel-powered vehicles adds to the toxic mix that often pushes the Air Quality Index (AQI) into the “severe” category.

According to CAQM estimates, commercial diesel vehicles account for nearly 30% of total vehicular emissions in the NCR, especially contributing to PM2.5 pollution.

Strict enforcement from November 1

The CAQM has directed enforcement teams to carry out strict checks at major entry points to ensure compliance with the new rule. Vehicle owners and operators are being advised to verify their emission certificates and make sure their vehicles meet the updated norms to avoid penalties.

With the AQI already slipping into the “poor” category, officials expect the move to help reduce vehicular pollution as Delhi enters its high-pollution season.