Delhi authorities have rolled out stringent pollution mitigation steps ahead of the 2026 winter season, which will remain active starting November 1 through January 31, 2027. The primary directive prevents pre-BS6 vehicles from entering the capital during this window. Additionally, a no pollution under control certificate, no fuel policy will be enforced across the area to restrict lower emission standard vehicles from operating.
Traffic Management and Parking Updates
To cut down traffic density on arterial roadways, the administration will introduce staggered office schedules alongside work-from-home options for employees. Public parking rates at municipal locations have been doubled to prompt commuters to shift towards public transit systems, a directive that has already been operational for some time.
Furthermore, authorities have enacted a complete prohibition on all construction and demolition operations throughout the designated timeframe.
GRAP Framework and Air Quality Management
For the past ten years, the National Capital Region has battled severe pollution levels using multiple strategies under the Graded Response Action Plan, known as GRAP. This mechanism relies on four distinct tiers that activate when air quality index readings exceed 300, 400, 450, and above 450 points respectively.