Delhi Implements Fixed-Term Winter Pollution Restrictions

The Government of Delhi implemented a series of fixed-term pollution restrictions on November 1, 2026, to combat winter air pollution. These measures, which operate alongside the Graded Response Action Plan, remain in effect regardless of real-time air quality levels. Most restrictions will last until January 31, 2027, though doubled parking charges at authorized sites extend to February 28.

Key mandates include a ban on dust-generating demolition and outdoor construction activities and a restriction on over 10 lakh vehicles registered in neighboring National Capital Region districts that do not meet BS-VI emission norms, unless they are electric or CNG. The government will use AI-enabled surveillance and automatic number plate recognition cameras to enforce these vehicle bans. To further reduce emissions, the government mandated a 50% work-from-home requirement for both public and private offices.

Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa indicated that enforcement may be relaxed until Deepavali, focusing initially on border checks. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta appealed to residents and institutions to comply with the framework. While the government urged through-traffic to use peripheral expressways, activists have criticized the policy for barring out-of-state vehicles while allowing older Delhi-registered vehicles to remain on the road.