NEW DELHI: Union environment minister Bhupender Yadav on Thursday said the government is implementing a range of measures to tackle air pollution, adding that the impact of these steps will become evident in the coming years.
Speaking at the Times Network’s India Economic Conclave (IEC), Yadav noted that sustained efforts since the establishment of the Commission for Air Quality Management in October 2020 have led to an increase in the number of days in Delhi with an Air Quality Index (AQI) below 200. However, he acknowledged that the overall situation remains far from satisfactory. “We will work harder and do better,” he said.
The minister outlined initiatives aimed at addressing major sources of pollution, including vehicular emissions, industrial activity, and construction and demolition waste. He pointed out that nearly 40% of Delhi’s PM2.5 pollution comes from vehicles.
On global best practices, Yadav said the government has undertaken comparative studies of measures adopted by cities such as London to improve air quality. “Different countries have taken different approaches. We are fully aware of the seriousness of the problem and are focusing on science-based solutions,” he said.
Highlighting improvements in fuel standards, Yadav noted that many cities worldwide that have successfully reduced pollution have done so by upgrading fuel quality. “India moved from BS-IV to BS-VI standards. Old vehicles should have been phased out earlier, but they were granted protection from coercive action in August. That stay was withdrawn yesterday,” he said.
He was referring to the Supreme Court’s recent modification of its August order, which had barred coercive action against diesel vehicles over 10 years old and petrol vehicles over 15 years old in the National Capital Region (NCR). The court clarified that action can now be taken against vehicles that do not meet BS-IV emission norms.
Responding to a question on parliamentary proceedings, Yadav expressed regret that the Lok Sabha could not take up a discussion on air pollution on Thursday, blaming disruptions by Congress members. “There was complete chaos. Opposition members stood on chairs and tore documents,” he said. The minister also urged citizens to support the fight against air pollution through voluntary and responsible actions, stressing that public cooperation is crucial to achieving lasting improvements.
