The Delhi government has officially banned the refuelling of petrol vehicles older than 15 years and diesel vehicles older than 10 years from July 1, 2025.
This directive, enforced under the guidance of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), marks one of the strictest vehicle regulations in the capital to date.
Petrol pumps across the city have installed Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) systems to detect such End-of-Life (EoL) vehicles in real-time. These systems instantly flag vehicles that exceed the prescribed age limits, denying them access to fuel.
The Delhi Transport Department, Delhi Police, and traffic personnel have jointly mobilised 380 enforcement teams to monitor compliance. Each of the 350 designated petrol pumps will have two ANPR cameras, signboards stating the ban, and a designated traffic officer to enforce it.
“Fuel will not be dispensed to end-of-life vehicles,” reads a bold notice across the capital’s fuel stations.
This crackdown is not just about enforcement, say officials—it symbolises a cultural shift toward green mobility. While some vehicle owners express concern over the short notice, environmental experts are applauding the move as a necessary intervention for Delhi’s air crisis.
The move is also expected to drive a surge in vehicle scrapping and cleaner transportation alternatives, aligning with India’s broader climate goals.
