New Delhi:
A standing parliamentary committee has proposed a series of measures to tackle the chronic pollution and daily traffic congestion in the Delhi-NCR region. The committee emphasized that short-term fixes are insufficient, and only long-term planning and strong political will can restore normalcy for residents.
Annual Cap on Petrol-Diesel Vehicles
Among the key recommendations is the imposition of an annual registration ceiling on new non-electric vehicles (petrol and diesel). The panel believes that this step is critical to control rising pollution levels and ease traffic congestion in the region.
Promotion of Premium Bus Services
The committee also suggested incentivizing cleaner public transport. Citizens should be encouraged to opt for premium bus services designed with app-based booking, real-time tracking, and reserved seating, similar to modern cab services. This initiative aims to reduce reliance on private cars and promote shared mobility.
Boosting Zero-Emission Vehicles
To accelerate the shift towards zero-emission vehicles (EVs) and fuel cell electric vehicles, the panel recommended offering production-linked incentives, subsidies, and tax benefits. Pollution-free vehicles could also enjoy free or reduced parking, while petrol-diesel vehicles face higher parking charges and stricter regulations.
Tax and Loan Incentives for EVs
The committee urged the Finance Ministry to facilitate low-interest loans for EV buyers through public sector banks. Insurance companies should reduce premiums for EVs, and the government should consider income tax exemptions on principal and interest paid for EV purchases. Government employees should also be encouraged to adopt electric vehicles.
Remote Sensing Technology for Enforcement
Current Pollution Under Control (PUC) certification systems were deemed inadequate. The panel recommended immediate adoption of remote sensing technology to identify high-polluting vehicles. SUVs, in particular, should undergo mandatory fitness tests every 10 years instead of 15, and owners opting to scrap older vehicles should receive financial incentives.
Expedited Approval for Metro and RRTS Corridors
The committee further emphasized fast-tracking all proposed RRTS corridors around Delhi, including Delhi-Gurugram-Shahjahanpur-Nimrana-Behror and Delhi-Panipat-Karnal. Pending Delhi Metro Phase-5 projects should also be prioritized to improve regional connectivity and reduce congestion.
The committee’s recommendations highlight a multi-pronged strategy combining regulation, incentives, and infrastructure development to create a cleaner, more efficient, and sustainable transport ecosystem in Delhi-NCR.
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