NEW DELHI: If Delhi is really serious about bringing down air pollution levels, it may have to enforce some unpopular measures along the lines of the steps taken by the UK, Singapore and China. In fact, National Green Tribunal (NGT)'s order on more than 15-year-old vehicles is already being resisted by their owners as well as agencies which cite logistical hurdles to implement the ban. TOI takes a look at how these countries have successfully implemented stiff measures to reduce air pollution.
UK is facing a fine of £300 million a year for repeatedly violating the European Union's directive on air quality and not meeting the standard for oxides of nitrogen (NOX), which are major contributors to air pollution. Besides, there is legal pressure from the European Court of Justice on Britain's polluting cities. London Mayor Boris Johnson is now considering implementing weekly car-free days along the lines of what Jakarta does in congested areas every Sunday.
In 2008, despite stiff resistance from authorities, people and businesses, London implemented the "low emission zone" policy where cars, buses, lorries and others that do not conform to emission standards are fined heavily. This despite a low concentrations of PM 2.5 (fine, respirable matter) in London's air. For instance, average annual concentrations of PM 2.5 in London was 6.5 microgram per cubic metre in 2010, about 20-25 times lesser than annual average concentrations in Delhi.
