Delhi May Soon Allow Only Electric Autos On Roads

Delhi-NCR may soon see a major change in public transport as the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has approved a step-by-step plan for electric auto-rickshaws.

Under the new order, fresh registration of L5 category three-wheelers will be limited to electric models in the coming years. Delhi will begin this system from January 1, 2027. After that, Gurugram, Faridabad, Sonipat, Ghaziabad, and Gautam Budh Nagar will follow from January 1, 2028. The remaining NCR areas will start from January 1, 2029.

The pollution control body said the move aims to reduce dirty air caused by vehicles across the region. It has also announced strict action against vehicles running without a valid Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC).

Starting October 1, 2026, fuel stations across NCR may stop giving petrol or diesel to vehicles that do not carry a valid PUCC. Authorities plan to track such vehicles through ANPR cameras and other digital systems placed at fuel stations.

Special relief may still be given during emergency cases like ambulance work, disaster help, police duty, or other urgent situations cleared by Delhi or nearby state governments.

CAQM has also asked officials in Delhi and NCR areas to quickly set up camera-based checking systems for smooth action and regular monitoring.

A few days ago, the panel also removed Stage-I limits under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) after air quality got better in Delhi-NCR. Reports shared by IMD and IITM said the AQI may remain between satisfactory and moderate levels over the next few days.