Chief Minister Kejriwal says that reducing the number of cars can significantly bring down pollution levels in the city
After a 60-per cent reduction in pollution levels was recorded on the first car-free day held on October 22, between Red Fort and India Gate in New Delhi, the initiative was taken forward by the state government on November 22. The stretch between sectors 3-13 and 7-9 in Dwarka in West Delhi was declared car-free, aimed at reducing pollution and congestion and raising awareness about the issue. The day was marked by a six-kilometre cycle rally, led by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, Transport Minister Gopal Rai and others.
Referring to the pollution monitoring done by Delhi-based non-profit Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) that , Kejriwal said, “It is clear now that transport is the prime contributor of pollution. If we can reduce the number of cars on road, we can reduce pollution in the city significantly.”
The monitoring in October was done by comparing pollution levels on the car-free day, to the levels in the same area, a day before. CSE’s study was further supported by the city-wide official ambient monitoring done by the Delhi Pollution Control Committee which showed an overall drop of 45 per cent in PM2.5 levels in the city.
Car-free day is observed on the 22nd of every month in different parts of Delhi. Transport Minister Rai announced that the next car-free day, due on December 22, will be organised in East Delhi in the Patparganj area.
Kejriwal added that car-free day should be observed across the city on January 22. “I appeal people to go to their offices by cycle or public transport on that day. I will also go to my office on cycle. If 5 to 10 per cent of people follow our appeal and use cycle and public transport, it will be big achievement for us,” he said.
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
.png)
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.