No PUC, No Fuel Rule Enforced: Delhi Tightens the Tap as Smog Worsens

New Delhi: Delhi woke up on Wednesday under a thick grey haze and tougher rules on the road. With air quality stuck in the 'severe' zone, the city rolled out strict pollution curbs, stopping fuel for vehicles without valid certificates and blocking older cars from entering the Capital.

What new rules kicked in today?

At petrol pumps across Delhi, attendants began checking Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificates before filling tanks. Vehicles without valid papers were politely turned away. At city borders, enforcement teams stopped older vehicles that do not meet BS-VI emission norms from entering Delhi.

The checks slowed traffic in several areas. Some drivers argued, others called family members to send documents on WhatsApp. A few simply drove away.

To identify vehicles without valid PUC certificates, Delhi has already installed automatic number plate recognition cameras at fuel stations.

And as part pf emergency measures, the Delhi government has directed schools to shift from hybrid to online mode for students up to Class 5 while secondary and higher secondary classes have been
offered hybrid option.

Offices have also been instructed to function with only 50 percent staff on-site to curb pollution and protect vulnerable groups.

Why is the city enforcing these rules now?

The air left authorities with little room to delay. Delhi's air quality index stayed in the 'severe' category, with residents complaining of burning eyes, sore throats and breathlessness.

Officials said vehicle emissions remain a major source of pollution during winter, especially when cold air traps smoke and dust close to the ground. With no strong winds or rain in sight, the government decided it was time to act, not just advise.

Who is feeling the heat the most?

Owners of older cars and two-wheelers are bearing the brunt. Commercial drivers, cab operators and small transporters say the restrictions will hurt daily earnings. Several commuters said they were unaware their PUC certificates had expired until they were stopped at fuel stations.

Authorities maintained there would be no relaxation. “These steps are not meant to punish people, but to protect public health,” an official said.

What's happening in Parliament?

The issue of air pollution will be  discussed in the Lok Sabha on Thursday  under Rule 193.

Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav is expected to speak in the Lok Sabha at 5 pm on the worsening air quality in Delhi and the steps being taken by the Centre along with the city government and neighbouring states.

Sources said the discussion will focus on both emergency measures and longer-term plans to reduce pollution across the National Capital Region.

The development comes as Congress leader and leader of Opposition in lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi had raised concerns over the issue in the Parliament.