Carmakers, CAQM at loggerheads on EV-only debate for Delhi NCR, Pg23

Key Highlights:

• A meeting between Indian carmakers and the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) expert panel on Friday ended in disagreement over the proposed transition to electric vehicles (EVs) in Delhi-NCR.
• The CAQM committee, headed by Ashok Jhunjhunwala, proposed that only EVs be registered in Delhi-NCR starting in 2030 to combat air pollution.
• Carmakers raised concerns about the feasibility of the EV transition, citing issues such as the availability of land for public chargers and resistance from resident welfare associations.
• Indraprastha Gas Ltd. (IGL) suggested a "dual pathway" with CNG for medium and heavy vehicles and electric mobility for two-wheelers, along with phasing out diesel vehicles in Delhi-NCR.

Detailed Insights:

• The CAQM committee's report stated that the transport sector contributes 23% of PM 2.5 concentrations in Delhi-NCR during winter, making it the largest primary source of pollution.
• Carmakers expressed that the committee chairperson did not provide scientific calculations to support the recommendation for an EV-only transition.
• IGL argued that CNG emits negligible particulate matter compared to other fuels and suggested converting diesel vehicles to CNG.
• The Association of Citygas Distribution Entities (ACE) urged the CAQM to recognize CNG as a distinct low-emission fuel category and provide equal incentives and policy support for both EVs and CNG vehicles.
• Concerns were raised regarding high levels of NOx, CO, VOCs from two-wheelers, emphasizing the need for stricter testing, better compliance, and a structured transition strategy.

Key Concepts Involved:

• PM 2.5: Fine inhalable particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less, posing health risks.
• Electric Vehicle (EV): A vehicle that uses an electric motor for propulsion, powered by electricity.
• CNG (Compressed Natural Gas): Natural gas compressed to less than 1% of its volume at standard atmospheric pressure, used as a fuel.