New Delhi, July 2 (APAC Media): The Delhi Government on Wednesday notified a permanent Winter Pollution Control Framework, introducing a standard set of anti-pollution measures that will be implemented every year from 1 November to 28 February to tackle seasonal air pollution.
The new framework replaces the practice of issuing separate pollution-control orders each winter and aims to ensure the timely enforcement of measures during the city’s peak smog season.
Year-Round PUC Compliance
Under the framework, only vehicles with a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate will be allowed to refuel at petrol pumps, diesel stations, CNG outlets, and LPG stations throughout the year. Compliance will be verified through both electronic records and physical certificates.
Additionally, from 1 November to 31 January, non-BS VI vehicles registered outside Delhi will be barred from entering the capital. The restriction will not apply to CNG and electric vehicles, ambulances, emergency services, and other exempted categories.
Parking charges at authorised parking facilities will also be doubled during the winter period to discourage the use of private vehicles, while parking fees at Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) stations will remain unchanged.
Work-from-Home and Staggered Office Timings
To reduce traffic-related emissions, the government will implement staggered office timings between 1 November and 31 January.
During this period, only 50 per cent of employees in Delhi Government offices and private establishments will be required to work from their offices, with the remaining staff working from home. Essential services, including healthcare, emergency response, public transport, electricity, water supply, and sanitation, will remain exempt.
Curbs on Construction Activities
The framework also introduces stricter controls on dust pollution during the winter months.
Demolition work and dust-generating construction activities will remain prohibited from 1 November to 31 January, while only essential public infrastructure projects will be permitted between 10 December and 20 January.
Vehicles carrying construction materials will also be prohibited from entering Delhi during this period.
Unified Pollution Control Strategy
According to the Department of Environment and Forest, the framework incorporates provisions of the revised Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) issued by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), along with directions issued by the Supreme Court.
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said the new framework brings together multiple existing pollution-control orders under a single, permanent system to improve preparedness and ensure consistent implementation each winter.
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