VEHICULAR POLLUTION
Cleaning up Delhi's air requires uncomfortable decisions involving rich people: Sunita Narain
Cleaning Delhi’s air demands tough decisions, not just targeting farmers for stubble burning but addressing major urban sources like transport and industry, says environmentalist Sunita Narain. In a PTI interaction, Narain highlighted that despite governmental measures, erratic weather and insufficient action continue to worsen pollution. She urges aggressive steps, including bringing natural gas under GST to reduce reliance on coal and expanding public transport, essential for significant improvement in air quality.
PUC Pollution certificate centres in Delhi may close next month as petrol pump owners threaten shutdown
Petrol pump owners in Delhi may close Pollution Under Control (PUC) centres from July 1 due to unchanged fees since 2011, causing financial strain. The Delhi Petrol Traders’ Association (DPDA) stated that escalating costs and unmet requests for fee revisions rendered operations unsustainable. With 650 centres across Delhi, the closure could impact 80 lakh vehicles, risking increased pollution and fines for non-compliance.
Pune: Automatic Rs 10,000 challan at petrol pumps for not having this document. Check latest rule
Pune Traffic Rule: Authorities in India working on stricter regulations to reduce vehicular pollution, promoting eco-friendly fuels and electric vehicles. Pune authorities have developed automated system using advanced cameras at petrol pumps to penalize vehicles without valid PUC certificates. Waiting for official confirmation on timeline for implementation. Drivers may have a grace period to renew PUC certificates.
CPCB report to NGT shows 80 pc environmental funds remain unutilised
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has spent only 20% of the environment protection charge and environmental compensation collected so far for mitigating air pollution in Delhi-NCR and protecting the environment. The CPCB receives compensation under two heads - environment protection charge (EPC) and environmental compensation (EC). The EPC is received from dealers/manufacturers of new diesel vehicles with engine capacity of 2000cc and above, registered only in Delhi and NCR.
Milan bans heavy vehicles, imposes antismog measures to tackle air pollution
Italy's Lombardy region imposes antismog measures to combat severe air pollution. Heavy motor vehicles barred during the day, limits on heating and farming activities. Lack of rain, wind, and mountain ranges trap smog. Italy has highest deaths due to pollution in Europe.
A toxic issue is becoming a major consideration for global companies looking to set up base in India
Air pollution is a major concern for foreigners considering establishing a permanent base in India, according to Hendrik Selle, head of the Department for Economic and Global Affairs at the German Embassy. He emphasized that air pollution affects not only people's health but also the economy. He emphasized the need for political action both nationally and internationally to reduce air pollution.
- Go To Page 1
Govt to build 6,000 km of electric vehicle-ready highways on Golden Quadrilateral
The new e-highways are expected to catalyse the development of charging infrastructure, spurring more people to buy electric cars for everyday commutes. Sales of electric cars last year stood at 83,000 units, shy of the targeted 100,000 mark, as first-time buyers kept away from electric as the only option for their choice of vehicle.
Issue of air pollution sometime becomes political: Former SC judge S K Kaul
"A number of things have been done. But the proof of pudding lies in eating it. The problem is that it (air pollution) is also sometimes taken as a political issue," he told PTI in an interview on Friday. Justice Kaul said the union government had formed a committee under the cabinet secretary to look into the issue of air pollution and meetings were conducted among stakeholders, including the states.
Panel on farm fires for 'red entry' in records
It is also readying to ask central ministries to consolidate and converge various schemes to ensure a more robust stubble supply chain management, ET has learnt. The panel is expected to submit its recommendations to the apex court this week.
Strictly implement curbs on polluting vehicles, biomass burning: Gopal Rai to agencies
He said the transport department and the Delhi Traffic Police have been asked to strictly monitor the implementation of curbs on BS III petrol and BS IV diesel vehicles under stage III of the Centre's air pollution control plan called the Graded Response Action Plan.
View: How EVs can make a difference in India's quest to reduce vehicular pollution levels
According to the Centre for Science and Environment, when pollution from all sources is calculated, Delhi's vehicles account for nearly 17% of the total PM 2.5 concentration. Internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles have significantly reduced tailpipe emissions in recent years, thanks to the implementation of Bharat Stage Emission Standards (BSES).
Delhi air quality close to 'severe plus' category, odd-even on anvil
The capital's 24-hour average AQI, recorded at 4 pm every day, was 401 on Wednesday, 397 on Tuesday, 358 on Monday, 218 on Sunday, 220 on Saturday, and 279 on Friday. The relatively better air quality last weekend is attributed to rain.
AAP is silent on internal causes of Delhi's pollution: BJP's Shehzad Poonawalla
As pollution levels surge in Delhi, a war of words ensues between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). BJP alleges Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal turned the capital into a "gas chamber," pointing to ongoing Punjab Parali burning. AAP, in turn, accuses BJP of neglecting its role in enforcing the firecracker ban. Despite Supreme Court restrictions, post-Diwali air quality index hits 'Severe' levels at 361, raising concerns over smog's return and visibility limitations.
Courts, lawyers can't enforce SC orders on firecrackers ban, social awareness needed, say experts
Senior advocate Gopal Sankaranarayanan, who represents the main petitioner Arjun Gopal and others seeking a ban on the sale and manufacture of firecrackers, meanwhile, has decided to move a contempt petition in the top court against the law enforcement agencies for the flagrant violation of the court's recent order.
Amid social media chatter about artificial rain in Delhi, minister clarifies
Delhi NCR residents woke up to a welcome morning after enduring severe air pollution, as light rain reduced AQI levels and washed away toxic pollutants. Social media debated whether the rains were artificially induced, referring to IIT Kanpur's proposals. Delhi's Environment Minister clarified the complexity of implementing artificial rain, highlighting the need for permissions. The Delhi government postponed the odd-even car scheme, pending post-Diwali air quality assessments. T
Uttar Pradesh's air quality deteriorates to 'very poor' category
In view of the worsening air quality index, the Noida and Ghaziabad district administrations on Tuesday decided to discontinue all physical classes in schools apart from those for students of Class X and XII until Friday, in view of the worsening air quality conditions. The administration suggested that schools conduct classes in online mode.
Delhi's air quality at 'severe' but some relief seen just before Diwali
Delhi's air quality was in the 'severe' category on Thursday morning with Air Quality Index (AQI) at 420 at 8 am on Thursday, tad lower than 426 at 4 pm on Wednesday. However, there are expectations of some improvement in the condition ahead of Diwali this weekend.
Why cleaner Mumbai is witnessing a Delhi-like air pollution
Mumbai is experiencing a concerning rise in air pollution levels, with October being one of the most polluted months. The city's air quality index (AQI) reached over 300 in some suburbs, surpassing even Delhi's levels. This increase in pollution has led to a surge in respiratory complaints, particularly among children. Ongoing construction projects, metro construction, high density of private cars, and climate change are believed to be contributing factors.
Marginal dip in pollution levels in Delhi, AQI in 'very poor' category
In a slight relief for residents, pollution levels in Delhi witnessed a marginal decrease on Tuesday morning after enduring five consecutive days of severe air quality. The national capital's Air Quality Index (AQI) improved from 421, as recorded at 4 pm on Monday, to 394, although it still remains in the "very poor" category.
Here's why GRAP plan for reducing air pollution may not work in Delhi-NCR
Experts highlight the lack of consistent action and enforcement of existing rules in the fight against air pollution in Delhi-NCR. Despite the presence of policies and regulations, implementation and enforcement have been found lacking, resulting in poor air quality for residents. The need for real action to address vehicular pollution, industrial emissions, waste burning, and construction/demolition dust is stressed.
4 in 5 families suffering due to pollution-related ailments in Mumbai
A significant number of families in Mumbai are reporting health issues, with four out of five families stating that one or more family members have experienced sore throats or coughs. Approximately 85% of those affected attribute these health problems to road and construction dust, while 62% point to vehicular emissions as the primary cause of poor air quality.
Haze hood over Delhi-NCR, Gangetic plains next
A March 2023 report of an expert panel (from IITs, Union environment ministry and Central Pollution Control Board) submitted to the National Green Tribunal, did a root cause analysis of the "haze hood" spectre and neatly mapped each step of course correction needed.
Here's what's choking Delhi and NCR. Govt panel reveals major air pollution contributors
Noida and Ghaziabad are the main sources of PM2.5 pollution in Delhi. The lack of a unified approach hinders progress in combating air pollution. NCR cities face issues like power supply, end-of-life vehicles, and public transportation. Diesel generators are widely used in housing societies and commercial establishments. The proposed ban on generators has been relaxed until December 31.
Will ban construction work in areas with severe air quality for 5 days in row: Delhi Environment Minister
Strict enforcement of air pollution control measures is advised, and efforts include the distribution of heaters to security guards to prevent biomass burning, increasing public transport with 1,000 private CNG buses, and using dust suppressants in water sprinklers to control dust pollution. The city's AQI is crucial in determining these actions.
Air pollution 'severe' in parts of Delhi
An AQI between zero and 50 is considered 'good', 51 and 100 'satisfactory', 101 and 200 'moderate', 201 and 300 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', and 401 and 500 'severe'. The city's air quality deteriorated to the 'very poor' category on Saturday due to slow wind speed at night and a dip in the temperatures. The air quality is expected to remain 'very poor' for a few more days, according to the Centre's Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi.
Clear the air about cleaning the air
An airshed is a common geographic area where pollutants get trapped, creating similar air quality for everyone. The Indo-Gangetic Plain is an airshed, one of the largest sources of PM2.5. All northern state governments and GoI must overcome politics and turf wars to make this plan a reality.
Delhi's air quality: Campaign to reduce vehicular pollution returns after a year
The Delhi government will relaunch its "Red Light On Gaadi Off" campaign on October 26 to reduce vehicular pollution. The campaign encourages drivers to switch off their vehicles while waiting at traffic lights. The Lieutenant Governor's permission will not be required this year as participants will not receive any honorarium.
Delhi govt identifies 8 more pollution hotspots; will use dust suppressants: Gopal Rai
The government of Delhi has identified eight additional pollution hotspots in the city, bringing the total number to 21. Special teams will be deployed to these areas to investigate pollution sources and take corrective action. The government also plans to use dust suppressant powder to combat dust pollution. The air quality in Delhi has deteriorated to "very poor" levels, attributed to a drop in temperature and wind speed. District collectors have been instructed to conduct field visits to ensure the implementation of pollution control measures.
Indian truckmakers eye electric as one way to tackle pollution
Last month, Ashok Leyland announced plans to build autonomous electric trucks for Indian ports. It’s also partnering with Adani Enterprises Ltd. and Reliance Industries Ltd. to launch hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, and is investing Rs 1,200 crore ($146 million) in its electrical vehicle subsidiary Switch Mobility.
Load More
