Delhi has started strict implementation of the ‘No PUC, No Fuel’ rule from today, December 18, 2025, as part of GRAP-4 (Stage IV) emergency measures to tackle the city’s worsening air pollution. The move comes after the Air Quality Index (AQI) remained in the ‘Severe+’ category, posing serious health risks to residents.
Under this rule, vehicles without a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate will not be allowed to refuel at any petrol pump in Delhi. Fuel stations have been legally instructed to check PUC certificates before dispensing petrol, diesel, or CNG, making compliance mandatory for all vehicle owners.
To ensure strict enforcement, the Delhi Traffic Police and Transport Department have deployed around 580 police personnel, along with 37 special “Prakhar” enforcement vans, across the city. A total of 126 checkpoints have been set up at fuel stations and major entry points to monitor vehicles and prevent violations.
The government is also using advanced technology, including Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras connected to the VAHAN database, to identify vehicles without valid PUC certificates in real time. Vehicles flagged by the system can be stopped immediately, even if drivers attempt to bypass manual checks.
Violators face heavy penalties, with fines going up to ₹10,000 for driving without a valid PUC certificate. Repeat offenders may also face vehicle impoundment, according to officials.
Alongside the fuel restriction, the authorities have enforced a strict ban on the entry of non-BS-VI diesel and petrol vehicles registered outside Delhi. Only BS-VI compliant vehicles are permitted to enter the capital during the GRAP-4 period.
Officials have urged citizens to check their PUC validity immediately and cooperate with enforcement agencies to reduce vehicular emissions. The Delhi government stated that these emergency steps are crucial to protect public health and prevent further deterioration of air quality during the winter pollution peak.
The ‘No PUC, No Fuel’ drive is expected to continue until air quality improves and GRAP-4 restrictions are lifted by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM).