In the Delhi-NCR region, possessing a valid emission testing certificate (PUC) is now required before refueling a car with petrol or compressed natural gas (CNG), in addition to having money at fuel stations. This requirement takes effect on October 1st.
The mechanism was introduced to combat air pollution, which intensifies during the winter period. According to information from the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), a ban on supplying fuel to vehicles without a valid PUC will be in effect across the entire NCR starting October 1, 2026. CAQM issued relevant directives in May 2026, stipulating that fuel must only be dispensed upon presentation of a valid PUC at petrol and CNG stations.
To ensure compliance with this procedure, automated license plate recognition systems have been installed at all fuel and CNG stations in Delhi-NCR. These systems allow for the verification of a vehicle's PUC legitimacy directly via its license plate. The system is being vigorously implemented across all fuel points in the region.
During the 26th meeting of the CAQM Subcommittee on Cleaning and Compliance, held on September 29, various steps to prevent air pollution in Delhi-NCR during the winter were discussed. At the meeting, instructions were given to state governments and relevant agencies to take strict action, coordinating efforts against various sources of pollution.
Measures against older vehicles that contribute to pollution are also planned to be intensified. The meeting analyzed the situation regarding restrictions on entry into Delhi for commercial and transport vehicles meeting BS-IV standards or older. Furthermore, emphasis was placed on tightening measures against outdated and end-of-life vehicles, including confiscation and scrapping such vehicles. A program for the complete removal of diesel rickshaws from NCR streets by December 31, 2026, was also reviewed.
Measures to prevent the burning of rice straw, one of the main causes of deteriorating air quality in Delhi-NCR during winter, were also examined. Methods to stop straw burning on rice fields in Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh were discussed. CAQM insists on measures such as crop diversification, growing Direct Seeded Rice, utilizing crop residues, and conducting awareness campaigns among farmers, aiming to completely eradicate the practice of straw burning.
Attention is also being paid to combating dust from construction sites in Delhi-NCR. Emphasis is placed on increasing the number of machines for removing dust from specific pollution hotspots. The administration is also strictly monitoring emission control measures at stone crushing plants and adherence to emission standards at industrial facilities. The system of surprise inspections at construction sites, industrial enterprises, and diesel generator units is being strengthened, and instructions are being given for the timely resolution of pollution-related complaints.
If you operate a vehicle in Delhi-NCR, it is strongly recommended to check your PUC validity before October 1st. If the certificate has expired, it is best to renew it in a timely manner, as there will be issues with refueling without a valid PUC starting October 1st. You should also consider replacing or storing your vehicle if it is below BS-IV standard, as Ministry of Transport compliance groups may detain such vehicles and send them for scrapping.
