Reducing Vehicle Pollution: India's Sustainable Future

India is one of the most polluted countries in the world, with vehicles on the road accounting for about 12% of harmful gases released into the air. This number could double by 2050 as more people use their own vehicles or transport goods. To reduce vehicle pollution in India, the government has implemented policies and technologies to curb the usage of conventional fuels and promote the use of alternative fuels and electric vehicles. The Scrappage Policy, for example, aims to properly dispose of old vehicles and recycle their parts. The government is also pushing for CNG and ethanol-blended fuels, and providing subsidies for buying electric cars. Individuals can also contribute by choosing eco-friendly fuels, obtaining a Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificate, maintaining their vehicles, turning off the engine when idle, driving smartly, and using alternative transportation.

Use alternative fuels like CNG and ethanol-blended fuels

India is among the most polluted countries in the world, with vehicles being a significant contributor. To reduce vehicle pollution, the Indian government is pushing for the use of alternative fuels like CNG and ethanol-blended fuels.

CNG, or compressed natural gas, is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional fossil fuels. CNG vehicles emit 5-10% less carbon than petrol or diesel cars and help reduce exhaust emissions by up to 75%.

CNG is a safe and readily available fuel option. It is being marketed by select outlets in Mumbai and Delhi, with plans to expand as demand increases. CNG is also similar to Compressed Bio-Gas (CBG), which is produced from waste and biomass sources and has the potential to replace CNG in automotive, industrial, and commercial uses.

Ethanol-blended fuels, also known as "gasohol," combine petrol with ethanol derived from sugarcane molasses. This blend reduces carbon monoxide levels in vehicle emissions, contributing to cleaner air. The Indian government aims to achieve a 20% ethanol blend by 2025, which will reduce the country's overall fuel requirement and promote sustainable energy sources.

The use of alternative fuels like CNG and ethanol-blended petrol is a crucial step towards reducing vehicle pollution in India. It offers a smooth transition from internal combustion engines to electric powertrains, as EVs are still working to overcome challenges such as high initial costs and limited infrastructure. By adopting these alternative fuels, India can reduce its environmental footprint and move towards a more sustainable future.

Opt for electric vehicles

Electric vehicles (EVs) are a crucial component of India's strategy to tackle its air pollution crisis. In 2017, the Indian government set an ambitious target of achieving 100% electric cars by 2030, which has since been adjusted to 30%. This shift towards electric mobility is essential for reducing the country's carbon emissions and improving air quality. Here are some reasons why opting for electric vehicles is a significant step towards reducing vehicle pollution in India:

Zero Tailpipe Emissions

Electric vehicles produce zero tailpipe emissions, meaning they do not release any harmful gases from their exhaust pipes. This is in stark contrast to traditional petrol or diesel vehicles, which emit toxic gases that contribute to air pollution and have adverse effects on public health. By switching to electric vehicles, India can significantly reduce its carbon footprint and improve the air quality in its cities, which currently rank among the most polluted in the world.

Cost-Effectiveness

Running an electric vehicle is much more cost-effective than a petrol or diesel vehicle. Electric vehicles use electricity to charge their batteries, which is generally cheaper than filling up with petrol or diesel. Additionally, electric vehicles have lower maintenance costs due to fewer moving parts and simpler servicing requirements. This makes them more affordable in the long run, especially with the falling cost of batteries, making electric vehicles more competitive with traditional fuel-based vehicles.

Convenience and Ease of Use

Electric vehicles offer a convenient and quiet driving experience. They do not have gears, making them easier to operate, and their silent functioning eliminates noise pollution. Additionally, charging stations are becoming more accessible, with options for charging at home or using fast chargers and battery-swapping services. This eliminates the hassle of visiting fuel stations and provides flexibility for planning journeys.

Government Incentives and Infrastructure Development

The Indian government is actively promoting the adoption of electric vehicles through various incentives and infrastructure developments. This includes subsidies, reduced registration and road taxes, and the construction of charging stations. The government aims to establish India as a global hub for electric vehicle manufacturing, with initiatives like the Make in India program. These efforts will encourage local manufacturing, boost economic growth, and make electric vehicles more accessible to the public.

Environmental Benefits

In addition to reducing tailpipe emissions, electric vehicles contribute to a greener energy landscape. India aims to achieve 40% of its cumulative electric power installed capacity from non-fossil fuel-based energy resources by 2030. By increasing the use of renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, for charging electric vehicles, India can further reduce its carbon emissions and improve its energy security.

Global Inspiration

India can draw inspiration from other countries that have successfully promoted electric vehicles. For example, Norway has achieved significant adoption of electric vehicles, with half of its total car sales in 2023 being electric. Additionally, China, the world's largest electric vehicle market, has implemented policies such as capping the sales of conventional combustion vehicles and mandating a certain percentage of zero-emission vehicles for manufacturers. Learning from these success stories can help India overcome challenges and accelerate its transition to electric mobility.

Get a Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificate

Getting a Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificate is mandatory for all vehicles in India. The PUC Certificate confirms that your vehicle's emissions are within the permissible limits, helping to reduce air pollution. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to obtain a PUC Certificate:

Offline Method:

• Take your vehicle to an authorised emission testing centre: You can find a list of authorised testing centres through the Parivahan PUC online portal.
• Get your vehicle's emissions analysed: The testing centre operator will place a testing device inside your vehicle's exhaust pipe to analyse the exhaust emission.
• Generate the PUC Certificate: Based on the emission readings, the operator will generate the PUC Certificate.
• Pay the applicable fees and collect the certificate: The cost of the PUC Certificate ranges from Rs. 60 to Rs. 100, depending on the type of vehicle and fuel type.

Online Method:

It is important to note that you cannot apply for a new PUC Certificate or renew an expired one online. The online method is only for downloading an existing (active) PUC Certificate. Here are the steps:

• Visit the VAHAN portal of the Parivahan website: Go to the official website and click on the "PUC Certificate" tab.
• Enter the required details: Input your vehicle's registration number, the last five characters of the chassis number, and the verification code.
• Click on "PUC Details": This will display the details of your PUC Certificate.
• Print or download the pollution certificate: You can either print or save a copy of your PUC Certificate.

PUC Certificate Details:

The PUC Certificate typically includes the following information:

• Certificate Number: A unique identifier for the certificate.
• Vehicle Registration Number: The official registration number of your vehicle.
• Date of Test: The date on which the emission test was conducted.
• Test Readings: Details of the emission test results, such as levels of carbon monoxide (CO), hydrocarbons (HC), and other pollutants.
• Norms: The emission standards that your vehicle complies with (e.g., BS4, BS6).
• Validity: The period for which the certificate is valid, usually ranging from 6 months to 1 year.
• Issuing Authority: The name and details of the organisation that conducted the emission test.
• Vehicle Details: Basic information about your vehicle, such as make, model, fuel type, and engine type.

PUC Certificate Renewal:

The PUC Certificate must be renewed regularly. For new vehicles, the initial validity is 1 year. After that, the certificate needs to be renewed every 6 months. For old vehicles, the validity period is 6 months. To renew your PUC Certificate, follow these steps:

• Visit an authorised emission testing centre: Take your vehicle to the nearest testing centre along with the required documents, including your vehicle's Registration Certificate (RC) and your previous PUC Certificate.
• Get your vehicle's emissions tested: The testing centre operator will use a gas analyser to measure the pollutant levels in your vehicle's exhaust.
• Obtain a new PUC Certificate: If your vehicle's emissions are within the permissible limits, a new PUC Certificate will be issued. If the emissions exceed the permissible levels, the testing operator may issue a rejection slip, and you will need to take steps to bring the emissions under control.
• Pay the applicable fees: The PUC Certificate charges depend on the type of vehicle and fuel type. Pay the required fees and collect your new PUC Certificate.

Importance of PUC Certificate:

• The PUC Certificate helps ensure that your vehicle meets the prescribed emission standards, reducing air pollution.
• It is a mandatory document to drive your vehicle legally on Indian roads, as per the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988.
• A valid PUC Certificate is also required to renew your motor insurance policy, as per the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) regulations.
• Not having a valid PUC Certificate can result in penalties under Section 190 (2) of the Motor Vehicles Act. The fine for the first offence is Rs. 1,000, and it increases to Rs. 2,000 for repeat offences.

Turn off the engine when idle

Turning off your engine when idle is one of the most effective ways to reduce vehicle emissions. Idling vehicles pollute the air, waste fuel, and cause excess engine wear. Modern vehicles do not need to be "warmed up" in cold weather, so there is no need to turn on the engine until you are ready to drive.

If you are stopped at a red light or stuck in traffic, turn off your engine if you anticipate being idle for more than 30 seconds. This simple action will reduce the amount of fuel consumed and decrease emissions from your vehicle. It is also beneficial for your engine, as idling can cause excess engine wear and tear.

In addition to reducing emissions, turning off your engine when idle can also help improve your fuel economy. By avoiding unnecessary idling, you will use less fuel and save money on fuel costs. This is especially true if you have a vehicle with a start/stop system, which automatically turns off the engine when the car is not in motion. These systems are designed to improve fuel efficiency and can be overridden if needed.

Furthermore, turning off your engine when idle can also help reduce noise pollution. Idling engines contribute to unwanted noise, particularly in densely populated areas or near schools and hospitals. By turning off your engine, you can help create a quieter and more peaceful environment for yourself and those around you.

To make it easier to remember to turn off your engine when idle, you can set a reminder on your phone or place a note in your car. Additionally, if you are in the market for a new vehicle, consider choosing one with a start/stop system or an electric vehicle, which produces zero tailpipe emissions.

Drive at a steady speed

Driving at a steady speed is one of the most effective ways to reduce vehicle pollution in India. Here are some reasons why maintaining a constant speed while driving is beneficial, along with other related tips to reduce vehicle emissions:

Improved Fuel Efficiency

Driving at a steady speed improves fuel efficiency by reducing fuel consumption. When a vehicle maintains a consistent pace, the engine operates more efficiently, burning less fuel. This not only leads to cost savings but also reduces the emission of harmful pollutants such as carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx). The reduced fuel usage directly contributes to lowering the overall pollution levels from vehicles.

Reduced Emissions

Maintaining a steady speed while driving helps to cut down on harmful emissions. By avoiding frequent acceleration and deceleration, vehicles emit fewer pollutants. This is because constantly changing speeds requires more fuel, which results in increased emissions. Driving at a constant speed, especially on highways or open roads, helps to optimize fuel usage and minimize the release of harmful gases into the atmosphere.

Enhanced Engine Life

Driving at a steady speed is not only beneficial for reducing pollution but also for the overall health of your vehicle. Constant speed changes put additional strain on the engine, leading to increased wear and tear. By maintaining a consistent speed, you can extend the life of your engine and reduce the need for frequent maintenance or repairs. This, in turn, contributes to a more environmentally friendly driving experience.

Smooth Driving Experience

Driving at a steady speed provides a smoother and more comfortable driving experience. Constant acceleration and deceleration can be jarring for both the driver and passengers. Maintaining a constant speed helps you anticipate traffic better and drive more efficiently, reducing the likelihood of abrupt stops or sudden lane changes. This not only improves safety but also contributes to a more relaxed driving environment.

Other Tips for Reducing Vehicle Pollution

In addition to maintaining a steady speed, here are some other effective ways to reduce vehicle pollution in India:

• Eco-Friendly Fuels: Opt for alternative fuels such as Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) or consider switching to electric vehicles. These options emit fewer or zero harmful gases compared to traditional petrol or diesel engines.
• Proper Vehicle Maintenance: Regular maintenance and tune-ups are crucial to keep your vehicle running efficiently. Follow the manufacturer's maintenance schedule, use recommended motor oil, and ensure proper tire inflation. This reduces emissions and improves fuel efficiency.
• Avoid Idling: Turn off your engine when idle, especially at traffic signals or stops. Idling wastes fuel and emits unnecessary pollutants. Turning off the engine during these idle times helps conserve fuel and reduce harmful emissions.
• Carpooling and Public Transportation: Opt for carpooling or shared rides whenever possible to reduce the number of vehicles on the road. Embracing public transportation, walking, or biking can also significantly decrease vehicle pollution.

Frequently asked questions