The Delhi government has announced a new move to issue fresh Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificates to vehicles entering from other states, aiming to strengthen emissions monitoring and reduce air pollution in the national capital.
The decision comes amid rising concerns over the environmental impact of out-of-state vehicles operating within Delhi’s limits. With a significant number of non-Delhi vehicles commuting daily, the city’s transport and environment departments are collaborating to enhance compliance with pollution norms.
Why New Certificates Are Needed
Officials stated that many vehicles registered outside Delhi often enter the city without valid or updated PUC certificates. Since these certificates are issued based on pollution standards of the home state, they are not always aligned with Delhi’s stricter emission norms, particularly under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) during high-pollution periods.
To address this gap, the Delhi Transport Department will now issue a new PUC certificate at designated centers in Delhi for such vehicles. These centers will re-test emissions and provide documentation valid within the capital territory.
Implementation Strategy
The initiative will roll out in two phases:
Pilot Testing Phase: A select number of PUC centers will begin the certification process for vehicles from neighboring states such as Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan.
Full Rollout: Based on feedback and technical performance, the service will expand to all major entry points into Delhi.
The Transport Department is also expected to launch an awareness campaign urging vehicle owners to obtain the new certificates before entering the city.
Non-Compliance May Attract Fines
According to government officials, non-compliance could lead to penalties under the Motor Vehicles Act. Traffic police and enforcement teams will conduct random checks, and vehicles without updated Delhi-issued PUCs may face fines of up to ₹10,000 or temporary seizure.
A Step Toward Cleaner Air
This measure is part of Delhi’s broader strategy to curb vehicular pollution, which remains a major contributor to the city’s poor air quality, especially during winters. By enforcing uniform emission testing standards, the government hopes to create a more accountable pollution tracking system.
Environmentalists have welcomed the move, stating that such localized checks and balances are necessary to keep air quality in check. It also aligns with the central government’s National Clean Air Programe (NCAP), which emphasizes state-level action plans.
