The government must be more proactive in not only shifting vehicles to cleaner fuels but also ensuring the quality of air by other means. Discuss (200 Words)
Refer - The Hindu
Enrich the answer from other sources, if the question demands.
IAS Parliament 6 years
KEY POINTS
Shifting to cleaner fuels
· Maruti Suzuki’s decision makes it clear that in spite of being a strong past performer, this fuel, diesel is riding into the sunset as far as the personal vehicle is concerned.
· This outcome should be welcomed for the positive impact it will have on air quality and public health.
· In Delhi, for instance, the effect of shifting the three-wheeler and bus fleet to Compressed Natural Gas improved air quality, but the gains were quickly negated by a rise in overall vehicle numbers, especially those run on diesel, besides a rise in other sources of pollution.
Reasons for deteriorating air quality
· Although diesel has powered India’s commercial transport segment for decades, its fortunes are declining for several reasons, beginning with the narrowing of the price differential with petrol.
· The diesel emissions data (defeat device) scandal involving carmaker Volkswagen dismayed many consumers.
Government’s role
· Giving enough time for car manufacturers to reorient their engines and by providing them support indirectly like concession in taxes, duties etc.
· Emphasis on improving public transportation, reducing private vehicle usage.
· The national plan to shift to higher quality BS VI grade fuels may offer some mitigation of pollution.
Improving air quality in the cities requires a transformative planning approach guided by the singular objective of reducing the use of polluting vehicles.
