Hindu Editorial Analysis : 1-December-2023
The escalating levels of air pollution in many Indian cities, indicated by the consistently high Air Quality Index (AQI), demand urgent attention. To address this concern, a pivotal shift towards electric trucks (e-trucks) is imperative. This essay explores the challenges posed by urban pollution in India, the role of the transport and construction sector, and the potential solutions through the electrification of the freight industry.
Urban Pollution in India
Concerns of Air Quality:
- AQI frequently enters the red zone, posing severe health hazards to millions of people.
- Urban Emission (2015) and TERI study (2018) identify transport and construction sectors as significant contributors to PM2.5 and PM10 pollution.
Contribution of Freight Movement:
- The addition of 9 lakh new trucks annually compounds the problem.
- Trucks, responsible for over 90% of road transport CO2 emissions, consume a quarter of Indian oil imports.
Challenges
Potential Rise in Freight Movement:
- With the growing network of roads, the truck fleet is expected to increase, exacerbating pollution.
- Diesel-fired trucks contribute to a greater onslaught of PM2.5 pollution.
Low Rate of Electrification:
- Rail freight is electrified but covers only 20% of the country’s total freight.
- Electric truck penetration faces challenges due to upfront costs and charging infrastructure constraints.
Cost of e-Truck:
- The upfront cost of an electric truck is significantly higher than that of a diesel truck.
- Cost and charging logistics remain major hurdles for widespread adoption.
Suggestions
e-Trucks:
- Truck electrification must lead the decarbonization of the transport sector.
- A demand for 7,750 e-trucks by 2030 could save over 800 billion liters of diesel till 2050.
Attracting Private Capital:
- A mix of public and private funding is essential for transformational scale.
- Bankable projects, attractively structured, can bring in private and institutional capital.
Capacity Building:
- Rapidly increasing electricity demand necessitates a substantial increase in generating capacity.
Green Freight Corridors:
- Designating expressways and national highways as green freight corridors can showcase the benefits.
- Feasibility studies, demand aggregation, and strategic risk allocation are essential for successful implementation.
Creating Facilitative Infrastructure:
- Innovative financial instruments, incentives for charging infrastructure, and a supportive regulatory environment are crucial for successful truck electrification.
Why In News
Considering the worsening air quality index (AQI) in many Indian cities, there is an urgent need to push top gear on the pace of transition to e-trucks, thereby mitigating the environmental impact of traditional diesel-powered vehicles and fostering a sustainable future.
MCQs about The Vital Role of Electric Trucks in Urban Air Quality
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What is identified as a significant contributor to urban smog in Indian cities, according to the essay?
A. Agricultural activities
B. Industrial emissions
C. Transport and construction sector
D. Residential wood burning
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What percentage of road transport CO2 emissions is attributed to trucks in India?
A. 50%
B. 70%
C. 80%
D. Over 90%
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What is a major challenge hindering the widespread adoption of electric trucks in India?
A. Lack of government support
B. Limited awareness among truck drivers
C. High upfront cost and charging infrastructure constraints
D. Inadequate manufacturing facilities
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What is suggested as a crucial step to attract private capital for the transition to electric trucks in India?
A. Increase public funding
B. Implement stricter regulations
C. Develop bankable projects with attractive structures
D. Subsidize diesel prices
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