Delhi High Court sees no urgency in plea against non-BS VI vehicle ban

The Delhi High Court refused to urgently hear a challenge to entry curbs on non-BS VI vehicles. The decision leaves restrictions affecting over 10 lakh NCR vehicles on course.

In Short

• The restrictions will apply from November 2026 through January 2027
• Transport estimates indicate over 10 lakh neighbouring NCR vehicles may be affected
• Two-wheelers remain exempt, while CNG and electric vehicles retain access

The Delhi High Court has refused to expedite the hearing of a petition challenging the BJP-led city government's decision to bar vehicles registered outside the capital that do not meet BS VI emission standards, news agency Press Trust of India reported.

The restrictions are scheduled to apply from November 1, 2026, to January 31, 2027, and could affect more than 10 lakh vehicles in the neighbouring National Capital Region, according to Transport Department estimates.

The matter was mentioned for an urgent hearing on Friday before Acting Chief Justice Nitin Wasudeo Sambre and Justice Sanjay Sharma. The bench said it found nothing wrong with the decision and saw no urgency in hearing the plea.

"No, sorry. There is nothing wrong in it, nothing urgent," the bench said, according to PTI.

The petitioner's counsel argued that the decision would affect many people travelling to Delhi from the NCR because vehicles, including cars that do not comply with BS VI standards, would be barred from entering the city from November 1.

The court, however, said several alternative vehicles were available for travel. The petition will be listed for hearing in the normal course after all objections are cleared.

Transport Department estimates show that more than 10 lakh vehicles in Gurgaon, Faridabad, Noida, Greater Noida and Ghaziabad could be affected by the restrictions.

The directive bars BS IV passenger cars and commercial goods vehicles registered outside Delhi. Two-wheelers are exempt. According to the advisory, BS VI, CNG and electric vehicles will be allowed to enter the capital under the prescribed rules and exemptions.

The restrictions have been announced as Delhi and neighbouring NCR areas continue to face persistent air pollution, with vehicle emissions remaining a major contributor. The High Court has declined an urgent hearing, and the challenge will now be considered in the normal course.

- Ends