02 Jul 2025, 10:32 AM
Delhi’s fuel ban for ageing cars went live on July 1. Any petrol vehicle older than 15 years or diesel model past 10 years will be refused fuel.
AI cameras at 350 petrol pumps scan licence plates in milliseconds, check vehicle age in VAHAN, and warn station staff. Once flagged, transport and traffic police teams step in to stop and seize banned cars.
This bold step aims to tackle Delhi’s air pollution by cutting soot-making engines off at the pump.
Fuel Type | Maximum Age Allowed | What Happens |
---|---|---|
Petrol | 15 years | Pump denies fuel; vehicle impounded |
Diesel | 10 years | Pump denies fuel; vehicle impounded |
Artificial intelligence makes quick work of old-car spotting:
Component | Specification | Cost per Unit |
---|---|---|
ANPR Camera | 4K @ 30 fps | Rs. 1.25 Lakhs |
Hooter System | 120 dB audio alert | Rs. 8,000 |
VAHAN API Link | Real-time data sync | Included |
Setup & Training | 350 pumps | Rs. 44 Crores* |
Agency | Duty | Pumps Covered |
---|---|---|
Delhi Traffic Police | Verify bans; impound vehicles | 150 |
Transport Department | Issue challans; spot checks | 100 |
MCD Vehicle Squads | Tow and store seized cars | 50 |
Joint Support Forces | Backup and crowd control | 50 |
An estimated 62 Lakh old vehicles in Delhi now face fuel denial. Nearby states add another 46 Lakh units.
Owners can use our Fuel Calculator to estimate monthly running costs and conversion payback periods.
Delhi’s ban is Phase 1 of a larger anti-pollution drive across NCR:
By 2026, the Commission for Air Quality Management may extend a similar fuel ban to all major Indian metros.
Feature | Detail |
---|---|
Recognition Accuracy | 95% in low light |
Data Latency | < 1 second |
Network | Encrypted 4G/5G VPN |
Maintenance Cycle | Quarterly hardware & software checks |
User Interface | Live-status web dashboard |
Station managers report easy setup and clear alerts for staff. Drivers say they welcome cleaner air but want more pump-entry notices. Experts call for the ban to roll out nationwide to stop run-around refuelling.
Delhi’s use of AI-driven ANPR cameras, backed by traffic teams, marks a bold model for other cities fighting vehicle pollution.
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