Hyderabad: There are nearly 8 lakh diesel vehicles in Telangana, which have been operating for more than 10 years. And experts say these vehicles are responsible for considerable vehicular pollution. From this 8 lakh, over 5 lakh alone are within the Greater Hyderabad limits.
Even as the National Green Tribunal bans 10-year-old diesel vehicles in Delhi and the National Capital Region, there has been no stop on such old diesel vehicles in Telangana. But in undivided AP there was a ban imposed — only within city limits — on 15-year-old vehicles being used for commercial purposes.
“But there is no ban or restriction on the age of personal vehicles. The State government or the National Green Tribunal have not given any directions on restricting the use of old vehicles in Telangana,” says Joint Transport Commissioner Mr B. Venkateshwarlu.
He adds: “Vehicles made prior to year 2000 do not meet pollution control norms (Euro norms) and emit more smoke. Vehicles manufactured post-2000 have entered the market compliant with Bharat-I, Bharat-II, Bharat-III emission. And now we have Bharat-IV (BSIV) standard, which control emissions further.”
Environmentalists are now calling for a survey on how many of these old 8 lakh diesel vehicles are actually plying on the roads. They are also seeking information on what is the level of pollution being caused by them.
Telangana State Pollution Control Board (TSPCB) scientist Mr Ravinder says 46 per cent of the total air pollution in city is being caused by vehicles. “This data was revealed through a study conducted in the city in 2007 by the PCB and a team from the World Bank. We are going to conduct a fresh study soon.”
Environmentalist K. Purushotham Reddy says it is the engine and not the body of the vehicle that pollutes. So only the engines complying with Bharat-IV standards, which are available in the market, can replace the old engines in vehicles that are 10-years-old. Reddy believes this will help many operators —who have not been able to buy a vehicle - save costs.
“Air pollution is also caused by garbage burning and industries. So it is not just cars. Steps like mixing three litres of petrol with seven litres of ethyl alcohol reduce pollution. Brazil uses this technique successfully,” Mr Reddy adds.
