Delhi unveils 2026 air pollution plan with tougher goods-vehicle rules; police bust counterfeit rackets

Delhi moved to tighten its fight against smog with the unveiling of the Air Pollution Mitigation Action Plan 2026, a blueprint that introduces stricter vehicle regulations and aims to expand public transport. The plan includes a ban on non-compliant goods vehicles from November 1, 2026, alongside a push for tech-driven enforcement to address both air pollution and traffic congestion.

According to the plan, the city will restrict goods vehicle entry to only BS-VI, CNG or electric from November 1. Officials have set a target of 13,760 buses by 2028-29 to strengthen public transport. The strategy prioritises reducing emissions from vehicles, dust and industrial discharge, relying on science-backed measures, stricter enforcement and the promotion of electric mobility.

In separate developments, Delhi Police uncovered a racket in Dwarka where expired soft drinks and biscuits were allegedly repackaged with fake dates and sold. In another case, six people were arrested in Outer Delhi in connection with a large-scale counterfeit toothpaste operation.

Police said investigations are underway to dismantle the supply chains behind these illicit businesses. The government’s plan outlines a phased approach to cleaner air while police pursue parallel crackdowns on public health threats from counterfeit goods. Enforcement efforts and investigations are ongoing.