Good public transport a crying need

Statistic show that the increase in private vehicles, along with the trucks, buses and heavy-duty vehicles spew out 7,012 tons of nitrogen oxide per year. During peak hours, carbon emissions from two-wheelers rise by 75%, compared to 42% during non-peak hours.

Statistic show that the increase in private vehicles, along with the trucks, buses and heavy-duty vehicles spew out 7,012 tons of nitrogen oxide per year. During peak hours, carbon emissions from two-wheelers rise by 75%, compared to 42% during non-peak hours.

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Experts argued that the checks and balances are failing. Former president of the Western India Automobile Association (WIAA) Sunil Merchant said: “For someone who doesn’t have an updated Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate, it’s simpler to pay a fine of Rs 1,000 than to actually get the PUC. Until people don’t lose time and energy for failing to comply, these punishments will not be effective.”

Lack of compliance is only part of the problem. “Since there is no centralised data or record of vehicles in the city, there is no way to keep a check on those flouting pollution norms,” said a traffic police officer on condition of anonymity as he is not authorised to speak to the media.

“The only way out is to push for fewer vehicles and driving discipline,” said Nitin Dossa, executive chairman of WIAA.

Experts said an efficient mass transport system is the need of the hour.

“People will continue to use their vehicles until they find an alternative. This is the only way to tackle increasing pollution,” said Rakesh Kumar, director, National Environment Engineering Research Institute.