Diesel Cars Ban in Delhi: Latest Status In Pollution Season 2024

Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) has taken a hit once again ahead of the festive season. The National Capital and its adjoining regions of NCR will likely remain at 'Severe' air quality levels for the next couple of months.

As with each year, the Delhi Government will implement preventive measures to mitigate pollution in the Union Territory, including restrictions on car usage in Delhi. There are several rules and regulations that you must ensure compliance with before taking your car out on Delhi roads. Failure to obey the winter-specific traffic rules could get you slapped with a hefty fine by the Delhi NCR administration.

Diesel-engined cars usually bear the brunt of the ban in the aftermath of Diwali owing to their higher emission levels. Over the previous seasons, the local administration has banned the entry/playing of diesel cars and SUVs within the city limits. Failure to comply with the temporary regulations often sees vehicle owners being slapped with a hefty fine or, in the worst case, seized by the traffic police.

As part of current restrictions, Delhi Police seized a total of 2,234 vehicles between October 1 and November 15. It collected INR 5.85 crore fine from all the challans that were violated on November 15 because of anti-pollution restrictions.

Hence, if you have a diesel car in Delhi, here’s your ultimate guide to staying compliant and avoiding traffic fines.

Current status of diesel car ban in Delhi

UPDATE: As of November 18, 2024, the Delhi Government has implemented GRAP Stage 3 restrictions until futher notice. This means that all BS-III and BS-IV diesel cars are restricted for any movement within the national captial. 

As of October 29, 2024, the Delhi Government hasn’t imposed any vehicle ban within the capital. The last restriction was in effect until January 14, 2024.

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Why are diesel cars banned in Delhi?

The Delhi Government usually restricts BS4 diesel vehicles during the winters to reduce severe spikes in air pollution.

BS, or Bharat Stage, refers to emission standards regulating the pollutants emitted by vehicles. These standards, which control pollutants like SOx, NOx, carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and methane, are checked. Currently, India has set BS-VI (BS6) Phase-2 as the minimum approved standard in India, and all manufacturers are required to comply with it.

However, the Delhi administration usually allows cars certified with BS6 and above to ply on the roads. While BS4 diesel vehicles are restricted to the garages, owners of BS4 petrol cars and SUVs are allowed to ply on the roads. Any vehicle compliant with BS3 or older emission norms is banned on the roads.

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Which cars are banned in Delhi during winter?

Air pollution in Delhi | If any BS-Ill Petrol and BS-IV Diesel LMV (4 Wheeler) is found plying on roads will be prosecuted under Section 194(1) of Motor Vehicle Act, 1988, which provides a fine of Rs 20,000: Delhi Government pic.twitter.com/NAogyC94bY

— ANI (@ANI) November 3, 2023

When pollution reaches 'Severe' levels in the national capital, the government implements Stage 4 of its Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), aimed at improving air quality in Delhi. Under this measure, specific vehicles are restricted from entering Delhi. The following types of vehicles are typically affected:

• Entry of all petrol and diesel trucks, except those carrying essential goods, is banned. However, CNG and electric trucks are allowed.

• Diesel vehicles over 10 years old and petrol vehicles over 15 years old (from the date of purchase) are entirely banned.

• BS3 petrol, BS3 diesel and BS4 diesel vehicles registered outside Delhi are restricted.

• Petrol cars that comply with BS4 and BS6 emission norms are permitted on Delhi roads.

• BS6 diesel vehicles are allowed to operate in Delhi-NCR.

These restrictions do not apply to emergency services vehicles, police vehicles or government vehicles used for enforcement purposes.

What happens if I drive my BS4 diesel car during a ban?

According to the Government of NCT of Delhi’s orders, driving a banned vehicle in Delhi can result in a hefty fine of Rs 20,000 under Section 194(1) of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988.

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FAQs

Are all diesel cars banned in Delhi?

No, only older diesel vehicles that don't meet BS6 standards are banned.

Can I drive my diesel car in Delhi if it’s less than 10 years old?

Yes, if your diesel car is less than 10 years old and meets BS6 emission standards, it’s generally allowed. However, temporary bans may still apply during severe pollution time.

Can I convert my diesel car to CNG to avoid the ban?

Converting a diesel car to CNG is technically complex and expensive. It would be better if you consult with an authorised service center for the approval.

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