Hindu Editorial Analysis : 27-November-2023
Air pollution in Indian cities has reached alarming levels, with the air quality index (AQI) frequently entering the red zone. This poses a severe threat to the health of millions, emphasizing the urgent need for effective mitigation strategies.
Air Quality Index (AQI):
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) monitors the AQI, consolidating complex data on pollutants like PM 10, PM 2.5, NO2, SO2, CO, O3, NH3, and Pb into a single index value. Studies show that PM2.5 and PM10 pollution, largely from the transport and construction sectors, contribute significantly to urban smog.
- Pollution Contributors:
- PM2.5 and PM10 pollution from transport and construction.
- Studies: Urban Emission (2015) and TERI study (2018).
Increase in Truck Fleet:
The truck fleet in India is rapidly growing, with around 9 lakh new trucks added annually to the existing 70 lakh. This surge in truck numbers significantly impacts air quality, as they contribute over 90% of road transport CO2 emissions and consume a quarter of India’s oil imports.
- Environmental Impact:
- Over 90% of road transport CO2 emissions.
- Consumption of one-fourth of Indian oil imports.
Way Forward:
While electric vehicles (EVs) have made strides in buses and three-wheelers, diesel trucks and dust mitigation demand immediate attention. The government’s focus on electrifying the bus fleet is commendable, but a comprehensive strategy addressing diesel trucks and dust is essential for both energy security and sustainability.
- Challenges and Opportunities:
- Upfront costs and charging infrastructure challenges for electric trucks.
- Electrification targets for bus aggregators.
- Urgency and Solutions:
- Swift deployment of solutions is crucial.
- Recent demand for 7,750 e-trucks in India by 2030 could save over 800 billion liters of diesel by 2050.
- Transition to Electric Trucks:
- Indian truck fleet projected to reach 1.7 crore by 2050.
- Accelerating the pace of transition to e-trucks is imperative.
- Financing the Transition:
- Public funding insufficient; private and institutional capital needed.
- Structured, bankable projects crucial for attracting investment.
- Decarbonization Pathways:
- Three-wheelers’ electrification is a milestone, but truck electrification is key for transport sector decarbonization.
- Essential for achieving the 2070 net zero agenda.
Why In News
The air quality index (AQI) in many Indian cities has entered the red zone several days this year. Millions of people have to face serious health hazards due to recurring increases in air pollution. It is clear that mitigation strategies have to be prioritized; urgent collaborative efforts between the government, industries, and communities are essential to address this pressing environmental issue and safeguard public health.
MCQs about Addressing India’s Air Quality Crisis
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what is the primary contributor to urban smog?
A. Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) emissions
B. PM2.5 and PM10 pollution from the transport and construction sector
C. Sulphur dioxide (SO2) from industrial activities
D. Carbon monoxide (CO) pollution
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What is the annual impact of the growing truck fleet on India’s oil imports?
A. Consumes half of India’s oil imports
B. Contributes to over 90% of road transport CO2 emissions
C. Results in a 10% increase in oil imports
D. Has a negligible effect on oil imports
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what is a significant challenge hindering the adoption of electric trucks in India?
A. Lack of government incentives
B. Limited public awareness
C. Upfront costs and charging infrastructure constraints
D. Inadequate electricity supply
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What is the key recommendation in the essay for addressing air pollution from diesel trucks and dust?
A. Increase diesel fuel efficiency
B. Implement stricter emission norms
C. Focus on electrifying the bus fleet
D. Develop a comprehensive strategy for truck electrification and dust mitigation
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