Delhi Cracks Down On Polluting Vehicles, 11,776 Penalised In One Day

On December 19, Delhi’s Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa announced that enforcement teams had issued 11,776 challans against polluting vehicles in a single day as part of a stringent crackdown on emissions across the city.

This initiative is part of a multi-sector approach that includes enforcement, dust control, waste management, and vehicle regulation aimed at improving air quality index (AQI) levels during the winter months. Sirsa highlighted the government’s commitment to year-round, science-based interventions to maintain clean air.

Efforts to combat pollution involved significant municipal actions: over 12,164.88 metric tons of garbage were removed, 2,068.81 km were swept mechanically, and water sprinkling covered 1,830 km. More than 5,528 km were treated with anti-smog guns (ASGs), with 160 ASGs deployed at construction sites for ongoing dust suppression. In the previous 24 hours, an average of 30,000 MT of legacy waste was processed.

The government also focused on citizen engagement by resolving 57 complaints received through various channels including the Green Delhi App. Compliance measures included stopping and diverting 542 non-destined trucks, alongside decongesting 34 traffic choke points. Sirsa called for public cooperation and adherence to pollution-control measures, emphasizing a collective responsibility in tackling air pollution.

Union Minister Bhupender Yadav also advocated for effective traffic management and removal of construction debris to visibly enhance air quality. He directed stakeholders on multiple fronts, including implementing staggered timings for commercial operations and strict penalties for violators, while ensuring public convenience. Monthly reviews of action plans will commence from January 2026, aimed at sustaining progress in air quality improvement.