In light of Delhi’s toxic air and continuously falling Air Quality Index (AQI), the administration has taken its strictest and most stringent decision yet. The “No PUC, No Fuel” rule has come into effect in the capital. This simply means that if your vehicle’s Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificate is not valid, petrol pump operators will flatly refuse to dispense petrol, diesel, or CNG.
This strict measure has been taken to enforce GRAP Stage IV restrictions in Delhi. Checking has been intensified from Delhi’s border points to the city’s main intersections to curb toxic smoke. In this article, we will explore in detail the monitoring system at Delhi’s petrol pumps and what you should do immediately if your certificate has expired.
Why the No PUC, No Fuel Rule Was Implemented
Delhi’s pollution levels have reached the “severe” category, making breathing difficult. The administration has implemented this strategic decision to reduce vehicle emissions. Currently, Transport Department teams are deployed at all major petrol pumps in Delhi. Over 580 police personnel have been deployed at the city’s borders and internal checkpoints. Additionally, 37 Prakhar Vans are continuously patrolling the roads to identify violators. This rule applies not only to private cars but also to commercial vehicles and two-wheelers.
Checking System at Petrol Pumps
The administration is no longer relying solely on manual checking; it is also making extensive use of technology. Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras have been installed at many major petrol pumps. These cameras scan the number plate of a vehicle as soon as it enters the pump. This system is directly connected to the Transport Department’s database and instantly tells whether the vehicle’s PUC certificate is valid or not. If the certificate is found to be expired in the database, the system immediately alerts the pump operator, and fuel dispensing is stopped.
What to do if the PUC certificate expires
Many vehicle owners often don’t realize their vehicle’s pollution certificate has expired. If you arrive at a petrol pump and are refused fuel, the first step is to remain calm and avoid conflict. Immediately check the validity of your certificate using the ‘mParivahan’ app on your smartphone. If it has indeed expired, PUC Testing Centers are located at almost every petrol pump in Delhi. You can go there and have your vehicle inspected immediately. Upon successful inspection, you will receive a new certificate, the data of which is instantly updated online, and you will be able to consume fuel without interruption.
Heavy fines for violating the rules
The Delhi government has clarified that this rule is strictly enforced from December 18, 2025. Driving without a valid pollution certificate will not only deprive you of fuel, but if caught, you could also face a hefty fine of up to ₹10,000. The administration has appealed to the public to cooperate with checking teams, as this rule is not designed to harass anyone, but to ensure the capital’s air is breathable.