With new plan, Delhi may see less polluted winter, Pg12

Key Highlights:

• Delhi government announced the Air Pollution Mitigation Action Plan 2026 ahead of the winter season.
• The plan focuses on reducing emissions at source, including traffic, vehicles, and waste management.
• Key measures include expanding the electric bus fleet to 13,760 by 2028-29 and installing 32,000 EV charging points.
• The plan aims to eliminate legacy landfill sites by specific deadlines: Okhla by July, Bhalswa by December, and Ghazipur by December 2027.

Detailed Insights:

• The Air Pollution Mitigation Action Plan 2026 is a proactive measure, unlike previous reactive approaches taken by the Delhi government.
• The plan targets specific sources of pollution, such as traffic congestion, old vehicles, and unmanaged solid waste.
• Improving public transport through electric buses, better metro connectivity, and feeder services is a key strategy.
• Redeveloping roads with paved surfaces and green buffers aims to reduce dust pollution and improve road durability.
• Effective waste management, including clearing legacy landfills and preventing waste burning, is crucial for the plan's success.
• Online emission monitoring of industrial units is included, but its enforcement will be critical for reducing industrial pollution.

Key Concepts Involved:

• BS6 Vehicles: Vehicles compliant with Bharat Stage 6 emission standards, designed to reduce air pollutant emissions.
• Electric Vehicles (EVs): Vehicles powered by electricity, producing zero tailpipe emissions and reducing air pollution.
• PUC Certificate: "Pollution Under Control" certificate, required for vehicles to ensure they meet emission standards.