The Delhi government is soon planning to install Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras at all border entry points to restrict the entry of End-of-Life Vehicles (ELVs) into the city in a bid to tackle vehicular pollution at its source in the city.
Restricting The Entry Of End-of-Life Vehicles
This step is part of a broader push under the state’s upcoming Environment Action Plan 2025-26, which will focus on technology-led, data-driven interventions to improve air quality and reduce emissions, said Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa while announcing the initiative.
“Through data, automation, and inter-state communication, we are creating a pollution shield around the capital,” Sirsa said after a high-level meeting with officials from the Environment and Transport Departments, as well as the Delhi Traffic Police.
As part of this initiative, the ANPR camera network will scan vehicle number plates in real time further cross-checking them with the VAHAN database, and flag ELVs attempting to enter Delhi.
After identified, the vehicle’s details will flash on LED screens at the border, along with a warning message.
At the same time, the automated SMS and WhatsApp alerts will be sent to the registered owner further informing them of the violation and possible penalties.
Enforcement Protecting the Health Of People
According to Sirsa, “This is more than just enforcement, It’s about protecting the health of our people. The system will also build awareness among transporters and vehicle owners in neighbouring states.”
Further adding that the cameras will serve both as a surveillance and educational tool.
Besides this, the Transport Department has been directed to issue periodic alerts to vehicle owners, particularly those nearing the ELV threshold, to encourage timely compliance.
Now they are preparing a 12-month SMS notification calendar to ensure sustained inter-state outreach.
This initiative would be one of several tech-based interventions in the forthcoming Environment Action Plan said the officials.
During the meeting which was held at the Delhi Secretariat, minister reviewed various components of the plan the including measures to control vehicular emissions, dust management, C&D waste regulation, electric mobility promotion, and Yamuna rejuvenation.
In the meantime, the departments such as DPCC, MCD, NDMC, DJB, and Delhi Traffic Police have been asked to streamline their implementation schedules and submit revised targets.
In addition to this, they have also scheduled to deploy anti-smog guns and water sprinklers across the key pollution hotspots starting June 1.
