Delhi Winter Action Plan: 14,120 Challans and Nearly ₹1.5 Crore in Pollution Fines

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The Municipal Corporation of Delhi has issued more than 14,000 challans and imposed fines of nearly ₹1.5 crore for air pollution violations between November 2 and 13, 2026, according to official data released under the Delhi government’s Winter Action Plan. The plan, which came into force on November 1, uses joint enforcement teams comprising MCD officials and civil defence volunteers to crack down on open burning, construction dust and illegal dumping. More than 600 personnel have been deployed across the city in day and night shifts.

Of the 12 MCD zones, West Zone recorded the highest number of challans at 1,877, followed by South East Zone with 1,866 and North West (Rohini) with 1,804. South Zone, however, accounted for the highest fine amount at approximately ₹78.5 lakh, more than half of the total. The most common violations included uncovered construction material, debris dumped in public spaces and open burning, particularly around Diwali. Fines range from ₹5,000 for open burning, in line with National Green Tribunal directions, to ₹50,000 and above for construction-site violations. Nearly 80% of challans were issued by day teams; night teams operated from 2 pm to 10 pm. No personnel were deployed and no fines were imposed on November 8, the day of Diwali, as Delhi Police had been given greater powers to act against firecracker violations. No challans were expected during Chhath celebrations as officials were on leave.

What is the National Green Tribunal direction on open burning fines?

The National Green Tribunal fixed a penalty of ₹5,000 for open burning of waste or biomass as part of its effort to curb air pollution. This direction was issued in 2015 while hearing a petition on deteriorating air quality in the National Capital Region. The tribunal directed that any person found burning dry leaves, garbage or other material in the open would be liable to pay this environmental compensation. The order applies across Delhi and other parts of the NCR and is enforced by municipal bodies and pollution control authorities.

What does the Winter Action Plan prohibit?

Under the Delhi government’s Winter Action Plan, which came into force on November 1, 2026, outdoor construction activities and dust-generating demolition work are prohibited until January 31, except for essential public infrastructure projects. Joint enforcement teams act against open burning of biomass and garbage, dust from construction and demolition, use of unapproved fuels, and illegal dumping of construction and demolition waste.

Which violations attracted the most fines?

Uncovered construction material, debris dumped in public spaces and open burning were the most common violations detected. Open burning carries a fine of ₹5,000 as per National Green Tribunal directions, while construction-site violations attract ₹50,000 and above. South Zone imposed approximately ₹78.5 lakh, more than half of the total fine amount, while West Zone issued the most challans at 1,877.

Why was no enforcement carried out on Diwali?

No MCD personnel were deployed and no fines were imposed on November 8, the day of Diwali. An MCD official said that Delhi Police had been given greater powers to take action against firecracker violations, particularly those involving bursting of crackers beyond the permitted 8 pm to 10 pm window, so the civic body was not required to deploy its own teams.