The Delhi government is set to launch its bold plan to curb vehicular pollution by banning fuel sales to “end-of-life vehicles” (ELVs) within the next two weeks. With 485 out of 500 fuel stations now equipped with Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras, officials say the scheme is ready pending final approval from the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM). ANPR technology will identify petrol vehicles over 15 years old and diesel vehicles over 10 years old using the mParivahan database.

These flagged vehicles will be denied fuel at all Delhi stations regardless of their registration state. The initiative follows the National Green Tribunal's 2015 order, upheld by the Supreme Court, banning ELVs in the capital. Officials estimate that despite enforcement, thousands of ELVs still run across the NCR. Experts warn of confusion and demand clear communication, especially about exemptions for vintage or special-permit vehicles.