The air quality in the national capital remained in the ‘poor’ category on Saturday morning, with the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 245 at 8 am, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). This marks a slight improvement from Thursday, when the AQI had reached the ‘severe’ category at 375, and has maintained lower levels since Friday.
Starting November 1st, two major changes have been implemented in the capital. The first is aimed at controlling air pollution, while the second is aimed at curbing cybercrime. These changes directly impact daily mobility and security.
1. Restriction on the entry of old commercial vehicles
In light of the rising air pollution in Delhi, the government has tightened the entry rules for older vehicles. Diesel commercial vehicles older than 10 years and petrol commercial vehicles older than 15 years will no longer be able to enter Delhi. Breaking the rules can result in vehicle seizure and heavy fines for the owner. This rule will have the greatest impact on trucks and taxis coming from the NCR and neighboring states.
2. Now instant e-FIR on cyber fraud
In view of the increasing cases of online fraud, the Delhi Police has simplified and expedited the e-FIR system. Now, suppose money is deducted from the bank account due to UPI/wallet fraud, card or online payment fraud. In that case, the victim can immediately register an e-FIR without visiting the police station. Cybercrime.gov.in or call the helpline number 1930. The prevention and recovery process will start immediately after the complaint is registered. Both these decisions are aimed at improving the safety and quality of life of the people of Delhi. While the ban on diesel trucks below the BS-VI standard is an attempt to reduce air pollution, the e-FIR facility will ensure faster action against cyber crimes.
Entry of BS-IV vehicles banned, BS-VI allowed
Under a joint order by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) and the Delhi Transport Department, only BS-VI-compliant commercial goods vehicles will be allowed to enter Delhi. Light, medium, and heavy goods vehicles (LGV, MGV, HGV) compliant with BS-IV or lower standards will not be allowed to ply in Delhi. However, the transport sector has been granted temporary relief until October 31, 2026, allowing vehicles with BS-IV engines to be phased out by the deadline. This step has been taken under the GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan). Since the last week of October, Delhi’s air quality has reached extremely poor levels. According to SAFAR India, many areas have recorded an AQI between 400 and 900, which falls in the severe category.
In response to the increasing incidence of online fraud, the Delhi Police has launched the facility to instantly register e-FIRs. Citizens will now be able to file complaints directly online for cyber fraud, online payment fraud, social media hacking, and e-wallet fraud. This will save victims the hassle of visiting police stations and help them quickly block fraudulent transactions.
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