Delhi to Ban Entry of Non-BS-VI Commercial Goods Vehicles from November 1 to Fight Pollution: Delhi Tightens Emission Rules to Improve Air Quality

Key Highlights:

• Non-BS-VI commercial goods vehicles will be banned from November 1, 2025.

• BS-IV vehicles allowed till October 31, 2026, as a temporary measure.

• Exemptions for Delhi-registered, BS-VI, CNG, LNG, and electric vehicles.

• GRAP restrictions to continue during poor air quality stages.

• Delhi is planning its first cloud seeding trial for artificial rain.

Starting November 1, 2025, Delhi will ban the entry of all commercial goods vehicles registered outside the city that do not comply with BS-VI emission standards. The move aims to reduce vehicular pollution, a major contributor to the city’s poor air quality, especially during the winter season.

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) approved this decision in its meeting held on October 17, following growing concerns over pollution levels in the national capital.

Also Read: Delhi’s Big Pollution Crackdown: From Nov 1, Only Clean Vehicles Can Enter!

What the New Rule Says

As per a public notice issued by the Delhi Transport Department, only BS-VI-compliant commercial goods vehicles will be allowed to enter Delhi from November 1. However, BS-IV-compliant diesel vehicles will be permitted entry until October 31, 2026, as a transitional measure to allow operators time to upgrade their fleets.

The ban applies to light, medium, and heavy goods vehicles (LGVs, MGVs, and HGVs) registered outside Delhi.

Vehicles Exempted from the Ban

The Delhi government clarified that the restrictions do not apply to:

• Commercial goods vehicles registered in Delhi

• BS-VI-compliant diesel vehicles

• BS-IV diesel vehicles (until October 31, 2026)

• Vehicles running on CNG, LNG, or electricity

Additionally, restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) will continue to apply depending on the air quality stage. GRAP imposes stricter measures when pollution levels rise to severe levels.

What Officials and Transporters Say

Officials explained that this year’s focus is on emission standards rather than fuel type or vehicle age. Inside Delhi, both commercial and private vehicles registered in the city are allowed to operate even if they comply with BS-III norms. However, commercial vehicles registered outside Delhi must meet BS-VI standards to enter.

Transporters are seeking further clarity and possible extensions. Bhim Wadhawa of the All India Motor Transport Congress stated that there is still a one-year period during which BS-IV vehicles can enter.

Rajendra Kapoor from the All India Motor and Goods Transport Association added that they may approach the Supreme Court if the government does not extend the relaxation period. “We will hold a meeting next week to decide what steps to take,” he said.

What is BS-VI Compliance?

BS-VI (Bharat Stage VI) is India’s most advanced emission standard, equivalent to Euro-6 norms. These standards reduce harmful emissions like particulate matter and nitrogen oxides by up to 80% compared to BS-IV vehicles.

BS-VI vehicles use cleaner fuel with lower sulphur content and come equipped with Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF) and On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) to ensure compliance.

Delhi’s Upcoming Cloud Seeding Trial

In a related development to combat air pollution, Delhi may conduct its first cloud seeding trial to create artificial rain if weather conditions permit.

According to Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa, the aircraft for the trial is expected to arrive from Kanpur. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta mentioned that the city could witness its first artificial rainfall on October 29, depending on weather suitability.

Also Read: Mahindra Expands Commercial Vehicle Network: 10 New Dealerships Open Across India to Boost Truck & Bus Reach

CMV360 Says

The Delhi government’s decision to bar non-BS-VI commercial goods vehicles marks a major step toward cleaner air and sustainable urban transport. By focusing on strict emission standards and introducing transitional measures, authorities aim to gradually eliminate high-polluting vehicles while supporting cleaner alternatives such as CNG, LNG, and electric vehicles. The initiative, coupled with innovative pollution control measures like artificial rain, highlights Delhi’s continued commitment to improving air quality for its residents.