Delhi Turns Back 16,827 Polluting Vehicles

As air pollution continues to challenge Delhi every winter, authorities have intensified efforts to control vehicular emissions and improve air quality.

The latest enforcement drive has resulted in thousands of vehicles being denied entry into the Capital.

During the first nine days of the restriction, from November 1 to 9, Delhi Traffic Police turned back 16,827 non-Delhi-registered vehicles that did not meet the required BS-VI emission standards.

Meanwhile, enforcement teams inspected vehicles at an average rate of around 8,208 daily. Officials also issued 696 challans for violations.

The restrictions, introduced under Delhi’s winter action plan, will remain effective until January 31. Accordingly, non-Delhi vehicles below BS-VI standards, excluding CNG and electric vehicles, cannot enter the city.

Special enforcement teams are monitoring 26 major border points connecting Delhi with Uttar Pradesh and Haryana.

However, authorities have focused on maintaining traffic movement while conducting inspections. Vehicles that satisfied the prescribed emission requirements received permission to enter.

Monday’s enforcement figures highlighted the scale of the operation. Officials inspected 7,551 vehicles and turned back 1,099.

Non-destined vehicles accounted for the largest share, with 637 sent back. Additionally, 172 heavy and medium goods vehicles, 156 light commercial vehicles, 84 cars and 47 two-wheelers were denied entry.

Private cars accounted for the highest number of penalties during the nine-day period, attracting 382 challans.

Two-wheelers followed with 138, while heavy and medium goods vehicles recorded 97 violations. Authorities also penalised 76 light goods vehicles and three buses.

The financial impact has also been significant. Officials imposed penalties and environmental compensation exceeding ₹1.39 crore through 696 challans.

Private cars contributed the largest amount, accounting for ₹76.40 lakh.

Meanwhile, enforcement against vehicles operating without valid Pollution Under Control Certificates has continued.

On Monday alone, officials penalised 987 vehicles. This pushed the year’s total to 7,502 violations, attracting fines worth ₹7.50 crore.

With restrictions continuing through January, Delhi authorities aim to curb vehicular pollution during the winter months and strengthen compliance with emission standards.

Image Credit: Sumitmpsd, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Image Reference: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Poulluted_killer_fog_in_Delhi.jpg