Delhi Govt Enforces Strict ‘No PUC, No Fuel’ Rule: Fuel Stations Deny Refuelling Without Certificate

The Delhi government has enforced a stringent “No PUC, No Fuel” policy. The decision mandates that vehicles without a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate will not receive any fuel, aiming to tackle the escalating vehicular pollution in the capital city. 

Delhi’s Strategic Move Against Pollution 

As per news reports, on April 27, 2026, a notification was issued by the Department of Environment and Forests, reinforcing the necessity of a PUC certificate for obtaining fuel. With pollution levels a pressing concern, Delhi is striving to ensure compliance with environmental regulations.  

The rule is founded on sub-rule (7) of Rule 115 of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, requiring every vehicle to carry a valid certificate after 1 year from the date of first registration. 

Comprehensive Coverage Across Fuel Outlets 

This rule covers all fuel dispensaries in the city, including those operated by major corporations like Indian Oil Corporation Limited, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited, and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited.  

The directive instructs the fuel outlets to adhere strictly to this requirement. 

Enforcement and Accountability 

Responsibility for enforcing the rule has been allocated to the food and supplies department, transport department, Government of NCT of Delhi, Municipal Corporation of Delhi, and Delhi Traffic Police.  

The government robustly emphasises accountability for any non-compliance, with significant penalties and impounding measures in place. 

Emphasis on Air Quality Management 

The Commission for Air Quality Management’s revised Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), dated November 21, 2025, supports this initiative.  

It underscores the need for strict enforcement with no tolerance for visible emissions. The measure is set as a permanent fixture in the fight against pollution. 

Read More: Zomato Removes Policy Penalising Restaurants for Lower Dine-in Prices! 

Affected Vehicles and Broader Implications 

The rule affects all vehicle types, including petrol, diesel, CNG, and LPG engines. Its impact is substantial on end-of-life vehicles; in Delhi, PUC certificates aren't granted to petrol vehicles over 15 years old and diesel vehicles over 10 years. 

Conclusion 

Delhi’s enforcement of the "No PUC, No Fuel" rule demonstrates proactive steps to combat increasing air pollution. By imposing strict certification checks at fuel stations, the initiative aims at significant pollution control measures across the capital city. 

Disclaimer:This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities or companies mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation or investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.