how is India trying to reduce air pollution
India is taking several measures to reduce air pollution. Here are some of the initiatives:
1. Implementation of Bharat Stage VI (BS-VI) emission standards: Starting from April 2020, India has transitioned to BS-VI emission standards for vehicles, which significantly limits the amount of pollutants emitted in the exhaust gases.
2. Promoting electric vehicles: The Indian government has initiated various schemes and incentives to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) like reduced taxes, subsidies, and charging infrastructure development. This would significantly reduce vehicular emissions.
3. Strengthening public transportation: The focus is on improving and expanding public transportation systems like metro rail networks, electric buses, and suburban trains to reduce the dependency on private vehicles and their associated emissions.
4. Implementation of the National Clean Air Program (NCAP): India has launched the NCAP, a comprehensive plan to reduce air pollution in major cities through a combination of source control, technology interventions, and stricter regulations.
5. Promoting renewable energy: The Indian government aims to increase the share of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, to reduce the reliance on fossil fuels for electricity generation. This shift helps in reducing air pollution caused by thermal power plants.
6. Bans on certain activities: The Indian government has imposed bans on activities contributing to air pollution, such as the burning of crop residues, firecrackers during festivals, and the use of polluting fuels like petcoke and furnace oil in industries.
7. Increasing greenery and urban parks: Initiatives like urban reforestation, afforestation drives, and creating more parks and green spaces in urban areas help in absorbing pollutants and improving air quality.
8. Strengthening environmental regulations: The enforcement of stricter regulations and monitoring systems for industries, construction sites, and waste management help in controlling emissions and ensuring compliance with environmental norms.
9. Awareness campaigns: Public awareness campaigns are conducted to educate people about the adverse effects of air pollution and encourage behavioral changes like reducing vehicle usage, promoting eco-friendly practices, and planting trees.
These measures collectively aim to reduce air pollution levels in India and improve the overall air quality for the well-being of its citizens.