New Delhi: The rising levels of pollution in the national capital, Delhi, are becoming suffocating. It’s becoming difficult for people to even leave their homes. The Air Quality Index (AQI) has started rising again in the city and surrounding areas. On the other hand, after the lifting of GRAP-4 restrictions in Delhi, the “No PUC, No Fuel” rule will remain in effect. Vehicles without a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate will not be able to get fuel at petrol pumps.
This surprising decision was taken in a cabinet meeting on Tuesday, chaired by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta. The proposal was approved unanimously in the meeting. According to officials, the “No PUC, No Fuel” rule was implemented on December 17th. After the rule was implemented, more than 2.35 lakh vehicles running in the capital were inspected, and more than 10,000 of them were found to be non-compliant with the standards.
Environment Minister provides important information.
Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa said that driving a vehicle without a Pollution Under Control certificate has become a crime against Delhi’s air. Therefore, the decision was taken in the meeting to continue the “No PUC, No Fuel” rule even after the lifting of GRAP-4 restrictions.
Orders have been issued to shut down more than 800 polluting industries. The deadline for installing anti-smog guns on high-rise buildings has also been extended.
Meanwhile, following complaints of irregularities at PUCcentress regarding pollution testing, a major campaign has been launched. The transport department found irregularities in 27 PUC centres during the inspection, and show-cause notices have been issued to them, and they have been ordered to remain closed until further notice. Two of these PUC centres have been permanently suspended. Officials said that the inspection of PUC centres will continue.
AQI is continuously rising in the city
It is worth noting that the air quality in Delhi is deteriorating significantly. After 8 days, the AQI crossed 400 on Tuesday. This was the fourth day of November when the AQI crossed 400.