New Delhi, December 22, 2025
In a strong signal of its zero-tolerance approach towards pollution, the Delhi Government on Monday announced a series of decisive measures aimed at curbing rising pollution levels in the national capital. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta reiterated that her government will not compromise on environmental protection and will take strict action against all sources contributing to air pollution.
The decisions were taken during a high-level review meeting held at the Delhi Secretariat to assess the status of pollution control measures and chart out immediate and long-term interventions. The meeting was attended by Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa and senior officials from the Environment and Transport Departments, the Delhi Pollution Control Committee, the Public Works Department, and Delhi Traffic Police.
Officials said the measures form part of a comprehensive strategy to tighten enforcement, reduce vehicular emissions, improve traffic management and strengthen public transport systems across Delhi and the NCR.
No waiver of PUC challans
Taking a tough stance on enforcement, the Chief Minister expressed serious concern over vehicles operating without valid Pollution Under Control certificates. Under existing provisions, such violations attract a fine of ₹10,000. It was noted during the meeting that in several instances, vehicle owners approach Lok Adalats to get these penalties significantly reduced, diluting the deterrent effect of the law.
Rekha Gupta made it unequivocally clear that pollution-related challans will no longer be waived under any circumstances. She directed officials to exhaust all legal options to ensure strict enforcement, including approaching courts if necessary. The Chief Minister stressed that the government’s objective is not revenue collection but ensuring clean and healthy air for Delhi’s residents, and compelling citizens to maintain pollution-free vehicles.
Talks with Ola and Uber for pooled e-bus services
As part of efforts to reduce the number of private vehicles on the roads, the Delhi Government will soon initiate discussions with mobility companies such as Ola and Uber to explore the operation of pooled and shared electric or non-polluting bus services in the Delhi-NCR region.
Officials said the proposal aims to promote pollution-free mobility through private sector participation and provide commuters with reliable, environment-friendly transport options. Such services are expected to ease traffic congestion, reduce emissions and complement existing public transport networks. The Chief Minister said achieving zero emissions in the capital remains a key priority and innovative transport solutions will be encouraged to meet this goal.
New guidelines for e-rickshaws
The unregulated movement of e-rickshaws was identified as a major contributor to traffic congestion in several parts of the city. Congestion not only disrupts traffic flow but also leads to higher fuel consumption and increased emissions from vehicles stuck in long queues.
To address this issue, the Delhi Government will soon issue comprehensive new guidelines for e-rickshaws. These guidelines will regulate their operational areas and routes to ensure smoother traffic movement and better road discipline. Officials said the aim is to strike a balance between safeguarding livelihoods associated with e-rickshaws and ensuring efficient traffic management across the city.
Rationalisation of DTC bus routes
Strengthening public transport emerged as a central pillar of the government’s pollution-control strategy. The Chief Minister announced that Delhi Transport Corporation bus routes will be rationalised to improve coverage and efficiency.
Rekha Gupta said DTC services must reach every area and neighbourhood of Delhi, including underserved localities. Scientific and rational route planning will improve last-mile connectivity, making public transport more accessible and attractive. Improved connectivity, officials said, will encourage citizens to shift from private vehicles to buses, thereby reducing traffic volume and emissions.
Coordinated implementation ordered
Directing all concerned departments to work in close coordination, the Chief Minister instructed officials to implement the decisions taken at the meeting with immediate effect. She said the Delhi Government is fighting a comprehensive and multi-dimensional battle against pollution and will not hesitate to take stringent measures wherever required to protect the environment.
Reiterating the government’s commitment, Rekha Gupta said the administration is focused on enforcing rules strictly, modernising public transport and promoting sustainable mobility solutions. She added that protecting public health and improving air quality remain at the core of the government’s policy agenda.
Officials said the latest measures reflect the government’s intent to move beyond short-term fixes and adopt structural reforms aimed at making Delhi cleaner, greener and pollution-free in the long run.
