Delhi’s Environment Minister, Gopal Rai, called for a strict ban on buses using poor-quality diesel in the National Capital Region (NCR) areas of Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan. During a surprise inspection at the Kashmere Gate interstate bus terminal, Rai discovered that all buses registered in these neighbouring states were BS III and BS IV vehicles.

He emphasised that vehicular emissions are a significant contributor to Delhi’s air pollution and noted that buses within Delhi operate on compressed natural gas and electricity, which are cleaner fuels. Starting from November 1, only electric, CNG, and BS VI-compliant diesel buses will be allowed to operate between Delhi and cities and towns in the NCR areas of Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan, following directives from the Centre’s Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM).

Rai further urged the Centre to impose a complete ban on BS III and BS IV buses operating in NCR areas of the aforementioned states and mentioned that the city government would issue notices to operators of such buses.

In April 2020, the Centre mandated that all vehicles sold in India must comply with Bharat Stage VI (BS VI) emission standards to reduce pollution. These standards set limits on air pollutants emitted by vehicles and focus on improving emission control, fuel efficiency, and engine design.

To address vehicular pollution, the government launched the ‘Red Light on Gaadi Off’ campaign, which encourages drivers to turn off their engines at traffic signals. This initiative aims to reduce pollution levels, as studies have shown that idling engines at traffic signals can increase pollution by over nine percent. Vehicular exhaust emissions account for a significant portion of PM2.5 emissions in Delhi, according to various studies.

The campaign will be conducted across all assembly constituencies in the city on 2 November , with over 2,000 eco clubs extending it to schools on 3 November .

(PTI)