New Delhi / Noida Border: Confusion and frustration prevailed at Delhi’s border checkpoints on Tuesday as motorists with legally compliant vehicles and valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificates were denied entry into the national capital following the sudden enforcement of restrictions allowing only BS-6 compliant vehicles registered in Delhi.
Several commuters were seen taking forced U-turns at border points connecting Noida and Delhi after traffic police informed them that BS-4 and older vehicles registered outside Delhi would not be permitted to enter, irrespective of their emission status or valid documentation.
One such commuter, a woman working at a publication house in Delhi, questioned the logic behind the enforcement. “I have a valid PUC certificate. My vehicle is roadworthy, insured, and fully paid for. If pollution is under control, why am I being stopped?” she asked.
According to on-ground officials, the rule was implemented with immediate effect late Monday night, leaving many commuters unaware. “If the vehicle is not BS-6 and not registered in Delhi, entry is not allowed,” police personnel were heard explaining at the checkpoint.
The commuter said she owns three vehicles but deliberately avoided using an older diesel car due to age restrictions. “I thought this petrol car would be allowed. It has run only 45,000 km and is in excellent condition. Yet it has effectively been declared scrap overnight,” she said.
Adding to the hardship, commuters pointed out the lack of parking infrastructure near metro stations and the absence of transitional arrangements. “Metro parking is unavailable, roads are blocked, and suddenly there’s no support system. This is not implementation — this is disruption,” another motorist said.
Officials clarified that even vehicles purchased after 2015 would be barred if they do not meet BS-6 norms and are registered outside Delhi, regardless of a valid PUC certificate.
As enforcement continues, visuals from border checkpoints show long queues, arguments with police, and vehicles being forced to turn back — reigniting debate over whether abrupt implementation without adequate public communication penalises law-abiding citizens.
