From July 1, 10 year old diesel and 15 year old petrol/CNG vehicles will not get fuel in Delhi – Identification through ANPR cameras, seizure on violation
No Fuel for Old Vehicles: New Rule to Be Implemented in Delhi from July 1
The Delhi government has taken a major step to control air pollution and enhance road safety. Starting July 1, 2025, petrol, diesel, and CNG will no longer be provided at fuel stations to old vehicles in the capital. This rule applies to “End-of-Life Vehicles” (EOLV), which are deemed unfit after a certain age.
What is the New Rule?
According to the guidelines issued by the Delhi Transport Department:
- Diesel Vehicles: Vehicles more than 10 years old will not be allowed to get diesel at any fuel station in Delhi.
- Petrol and CNG Vehicles: Vehicles more than 15 years old will also be denied fuel.
These vehicles will be categorized as “End-of-Life Vehicles.” The rule applies not only to vehicles registered in Delhi but also to similar old vehicles entering from other states.
Why Was This Decision Made?
Delhi has long been struggling with severe air pollution. According to the government, old vehicles are a major contributor to this issue. These vehicles:
- Increase levels of pollutants such as PM2.5 and PM10,
- Have weakened safety and braking systems due to age,
- Emit higher levels of greenhouse gases.
For these reasons, the government has decided to gradually phase these vehicles out from the roads.
Who Is Exempt?
The government has clarified that the rule applies only to vehicles that have exceeded the specified age limit. If a vehicle has surpassed this limit but has a valid fitness certificate or registered scrapping certificate, it will not fall under the purview of this rule.
What Changes at Fuel Stations?
The Delhi government has instructed all fuel station operators to:
- Use ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) cameras to identify old vehicles,
- Refuse fuel to such vehicles,
- Report any disputes or violations to the relevant authorities.
Fuel stations that violate this rule may face penalties and even license cancellation.
Monitoring and Implementation
The government has prepared about 200 enforcement teams, including personnel from Delhi Traffic Police, the Transport Department, and municipal corporations. These teams will be deployed at fuel stations to identify and take immediate action against old vehicles.
Penalties and Fines
If a vehicle owner violates the rules, they may face a fine of up to ₹10,000. Additionally:
- The vehicle may be impounded,
- And sent to an authorized scrapping center.
Petrol pump operators may also be penalized if they fail to comply with the rule.
Expansion to NCR
This policy will not remain limited to Delhi. The government plans to implement it in Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, Noida, and Sonipat from November 1, 2025. It will be extended to the entire National Capital Region (NCR) from April 1, 2026.
Suggestions for Citizens
If you own an old vehicle, it’s advised to scrap it in time or obtain a valid fitness certificate. Under the Delhi government’s vehicle scrapping policy, you may also be eligible for incentives or subsidies when purchasing a new vehicle.
This decision is being seen as a tough but necessary step against air pollution. The government hopes that people will move towards electric or less polluting vehicles and help make Delhi breathable again.
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