CM Rekha unveils action plan 2026 to tackle pollution
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Friday launched a comprehensive Air Pollution Mitigation Action Plan 2026, announcing strict enforcement measures including a “No PUC, No Fuel” rule and restrictions on the entry of non-compliant vehicles into the Capital from November 1.
The plan outlines a wide-ranging strategy to curb pollution through enforcement, technology, and time-bound action. It targets key pollution sources such as vehicular emissions, road dust, construction activity, industrial discharge, and biomass burning.
Addressing a high-level review meeting at the Mukhyamantri Janseva Sadan, the Chief Minister said the initiative marks a shift from policy intent to execution. She stated that clean air and environmental protection are central to the Government’s agenda, backed by dedicated budgetary support.
Under the plan, strict action will be taken against vehicles without valid Pollution Under Control certificates. Authorities will use automatic number plate recognition cameras and digital systems to enforce compliance.
From November 1, only BS-VI compliant, CNG-powered, or electric goods vehicles will be allowed to enter Delhi. Non-essential traffic will also be regulated. Officials said additional restrictions could be imposed during periods of severe pollution.
These may include staggered office timings, work-from-home measures, and curbs on polluting vehicles.
The Government is also focusing on expanding public transport to reduce dependence on private vehicles. The bus fleet is set to increase to 13,760 by 2028-29, with priority given to electric buses. Integration of metro and regional transit systems with feeder services is planned to improve last-mile connectivity. To support electric mobility, the Government will install 32,000 charging points over the next four years.
A new Electric Vehicle Policy 2026 is being prepared, focusing on two-wheelers, commercial vehicles, and the transition of Government fleets to cleaner fuels.
Traffic congestion, a major contributor to emissions, will be addressed through interventions at 62 identified hotspots. Authorities plan to deploy an intelligent traffic management system and introduce smart parking solutions to improve traffic flow and reduce emissions.
Key Highlights: Air Pollution Mitigation Action Plan 2026
Immediate & Strategic Enforcement
- No PUC, No Fuel: Mandatory valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate required for refueling at all petrol pumps
- Entry Restrictions (Nov 1): Only BS-VI compliant, CNG-powered, or electric goods vehicles allowed into Delhi
- Tech-Driven Monitoring: Use of ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) cameras, GPS tracking for sweepers, and the AI-enabled C&D Portal 2.0 for construction sites
Green Mobility & Public Transport
- Fleet Expansion: Targeted increase to 13,760 buses by 2028-29, with a core focus on electric buses
- Infrastructure: Installation of 32,000 EV charging points over the next four years
- Connectivity: Integration of Metro, Regional Transit, and feeder services (including 500 mini e-buses) for last-mile access
Urban Management & Infrastructure
- Traffic De-congestion: Focused interventions at 62 identified hotspots using Intelligent Traffic Management Systems (ITMS)
- Road Redevelopment: 3,500 km of roads to be paved with green buffers to reduce road dust
- Dust Control: Deployment of mechanical sweepers, anti-smog guns, and mandatory mist spray systems for large buildings
Waste & Landfill Targets
- Landfill Clearance Deadlines: Okhla: July 2026
- Bhalswa: December 2026
- Ghazipur: December 2027
- Biomass Ban: Strict prohibition of open burning with a shift toward electric heating alternatives
