Delhi’s Fuel Ban on Old Vehicles from July 1, 2025: What You Must Know

If you drive a petrol or diesel vehicle in Delhi, this is crucial. Starting July 1, 2025, the Delhi government has enforced a strict fuel ban on End-of-Life (EoL) vehicles, a move aimed at tackling the city's long-standing air pollution crisis.

But what does this really mean for car owners, daily commuters, and residents of the National Capital Region? Let’s break it all down.

What Is the Fuel Ban About

Under the new rule:

• Diesel vehicles older than 10 years
• Petrol vehicles older than 15 years

These vehicles will no longer be allowed to refuel at any petrol station in Delhi, even if the vehicles are registered in other states.

The policy is based on longstanding orders from the Supreme Court and the National Green Tribunal (NGT) to phase out older, more polluting vehicles from Delhi’s roads.

The Delhi government has clarified that CNG vehicles are exempt from this ban, at least for now.

Why the Ban? A Step Toward Cleaner Air

Delhi has been grappling with hazardous air pollution levels for years, especially in the winter. According to environmental experts, older diesel and petrol vehicles contribute a significant portion of vehicular emissions, including fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen oxides (NOx).

Though vehicles are just one part of the pollution puzzle (others include construction dust, industry, and agricultural stubble burning), targeting high-emission, aged vehicles is a visible and enforceable intervention.

How Is It Being Implemented?

This isn't just a suggestion, it’s being strictly enforced with the help of technology and on-ground teams:

• ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) cameras are now installed at over 350 petrol stations across Delhi
• These cameras scan license plates and match them with the VAHAN database to instantly identify EoL vehicles
• Enforcement teams, comprising the Delhi Traffic Police, Transport Department, and MCD, are deployed at fuel stations to oversee compliance
• Fuel stations are required to log all refuelling denials, either digitally or manually.
• Offenders face hefty penalties, including:

1. ₹10,000 fines for four-wheelers
2. ₹5,000 fines for two-wheelers
3. Immediate vehicle impoundment and towing
4. Possible mandatory scrapping under the Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facility (RVSF) policy

What Are Your Options?

If your vehicle is affected by this ban, here’s what you can do:

1. Check your vehicle’s age on the VAHAN portal.
2. Sell the vehicle outside Delhi, where EoL bans may not apply.

3. Scrap your car with CARS24’s easy-to-use service, and get a great value for your car.

    

Final Thoughts

This new fuel ban marks a significant step toward improving Delhi’s air quality, but it also comes with real consequences for many vehicle owners. If you own an older petrol or diesel vehicle in the capital, it's time to take action, whether by scrapping, selling, or retrofitting.

The shift may be inconvenient in the short term, but it’s a move toward a cleaner, healthier Delhi in the long run.