Delhi Pollution: Delhi Implements Strict Anti-Pollution Measures: No Fuel Without PUCC, BS-VI Vehicles Only Entry

In a decisive move to combat the escalating air pollution levels, the Delhi government is set to enforce a series of stringent measures across the capital starting December 18th. These regulations aim to curb major sources of pollution and improve Delhi's air quality. Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa announced these new provisions, appealing for public cooperation in this critical endeavor.

Mandatory PUCC for Fuel Dispensation

From December 18th, a crucial rule will be implemented at all petrol pumps in Delhi: no vehicle will be provided with fuel without a valid Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC). This rule applies to both vehicles registered in Delhi and those entering from outside the capital. Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa, in an exclusive interview with TV9 Bharatvarsh, emphasized the absolute necessity of a PUCC for clean air in Delhi. He stated that it isn't merely about avoiding fines but about demonstrating responsibility towards the city's environment. The government has also decided to deploy its enforcement teams at petrol pumps to ensure proper compliance with this rule and to prevent any undue inconvenience to citizens.

Strict Restrictions on External Vehicles

The Delhi government has also adopted a firm stance against polluting vehicles from outside the city. Starting December 18th, vehicles registered outside Delhi that don't comply. With BS-VI emission standards will be denied entry into the capital. This measure specifically targets older vehicles that adhere to lower emission standards and contribute more to air pollution. Minister Sirsa clarified that as long as the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is in effect, only Bharat Stage-6 (BS-VI) compliant vehicles will be permitted to enter Delhi.

This is a significant step to reduce vehicular emissions originating from neighboring regions. To mitigate dust pollution, the Delhi government has taken another vital step. Trucks originating from outside Delhi that carry construction materials such as 'bhadarpur', 'roadi', 'bajri', and other building supplies are completely banned from entering the city. Construction activities are already prohibited within Delhi, and this new ban will help control dust emanating from construction sites, while minister Sirsa explained that restricting such trucks is essential to reduce dust pollution, as airborne dust poses a significant challenge and its reduction is paramount for improving air quality.

Promoting Work From Home and Carpooling

The Delhi government has urged its citizens to play an active role in combating pollution. Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa appealed to people to adopt carpooling as much as possible and to work from home, while he mentioned that the Delhi government has also issued an order for 50% work from home. The Minister himself cited carpooling as an example, stating that unless people embrace such concepts, it will be challenging to reduce the number of cars on the roads. The Delhi government is also considering developing a carpooling app and is in. Discussions with existing apps to create an effective carpooling platform with government support.

Financial Aid for Construction Workers

For construction workers facing financial hardships due to the halt in work caused by pollution control measures, the Delhi government has announced relief. The Chief Minister has decided to provide financial assistance of ₹10,000 to such workers. This initiative will support thousands of laborers who have been unemployed for several days due to the ban on construction activities, while minister Sirsa stated that this is a humanitarian gesture to ensure that no one suffers unduly in the efforts to combat pollution.

Impact of Dust on Oxygen Emission

Citing research, Minister Sirsa highlighted that dust accumulation on leaves reduces oxygen emission. He noted that depending on the amount of dust accumulated, oxygen emission could decrease by more than 5%, which presents a significant challenge. To address this issue, the government is also focusing on increasing greenery, the effects of which will be seen in the future. While rain helps reduce dust, permanent solutions like afforestation and other dust control measures are necessary.

Rebuttal to Opposition's Allegations

Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa strongly reacted to the opposition's allegations of manipulating pollution data. He termed these accusations as 'the height of shamelessness,' stating that the AQI centers and stations were established by the Aam Aadmi Party itself. He questioned how these stations could be manipulated when they were installed by the very party in power, while sirsa urged the opposition to cooperate in the fight against pollution instead of engaging in political rhetoric. The Delhi government believes that only through these strict measures and public participation can the capital's air be made clean and healthy once again.