Delhi-NCR's air turns "severe": Emergency vehicles get a pass
Delhi-NCR's air quality has hit crisis mode, with AQI levels nearing 450.
To tackle the smog, authorities rolled out GRAP Stage-IV restrictions on December 13, 2025—but emergency services like ambulances, fire trucks, and police cars can still hit the roads without worry.
What's actually restricted (and what's not)?
If you're not in an emergency vehicle or working in essential services, things are tight: BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel cars are off the streets unless they are part of essential services.
CNG, electric, and newer BS-VI vehicles are still good to go.
Construction is paused, most offices have a 50% work-from-home rule now, and schools are switching to hybrid classes.
Plus—no fuel if your car doesn't have a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate.
Why does this matter?
This is one of Delhi's toughest pollution crackdowns yet—meant to fight winter smog from stubble burning and traffic.
If you live here or just want cleaner air someday, it's worth knowing how far the city will go when things get this bad.