In a bid to put a partial curb in overall pollution levels, the government of NCT of Delhi is likely to curtail existing bus fare rates under Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) to maximize commuting in and around Delhi, according to the Minister of Environment & Forest, Food Supplies and Elections, Mr. Imran Hussain.
Speaking at an Interactive Session on Combating Pollution Issues of Delhi NCR – Its Magnitude, Impact & Measures under aegis of PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry here today, Mr. Hussain also said that the AAP Government would also intensify efforts for third party audit to combat pollution which would enhance plantation of additional trees.
According to him, “the Delhi Government is likely to curtail the DTC bus fare shortly to encourage and motivate the commuting lot of four wheeler vehicles, beat car and any other such mode of transport to shift away to CNG buses that would be comfortable and even luxurious. This could be one measure that could contain the vehicular pollution in and around Delhi”.
The Minister, however, did not elaborate on this any further nor did he explain as to by when the bus fare would be reduced and to which extent.
Mr. Hussain also praised the initiative of the Road Transport and Highways Minister Mr. Nitin Gadkari as per which the state governments of Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan and Punjab should put in collective efforts with the Central Government to combat the menace of rising pollution on finding out solution on the issue of stubble burning in these states since it causes and contributes a great deal to pm levels in air pollution.
Among others who spoke on the occasion emphasizing the need for collective and united efforts for pollution containment with the governments and other stakeholders consisted of Convenor, Delhi Wing, AAP, Mr. Dilip Pandey; President, PHD Chamber, Mr. Gopal Jiwarajka and its Chairman, Delhi & NCR Committee and Member, Managing Committee, Mr. Dhiraj Dhar Gupta and Mr. Pradeep Multani.