Advocate Rapolu Bhaskar has submitted a representation to the relevant authorities urging immediate action to address the growing pollution caused by auto rickshaws in urban areas. He emphasized that while auto rickshaws serve as an essential mode of transport for millions of people, their significant contribution to air pollution, particularly in congested cities, cannot be ignored. Bhaskar highlighted that the reliance on conventional, fuel-based auto rickshaws is detrimental to the environment and public health, necessitating urgent intervention from the authorities.
The representation points out that the emissions from auto rickshaws, which primarily run on diesel or petrol, contribute to high levels of harmful pollutants such as carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter. These pollutants have been linked to a range of serious health issues, including respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems, and other long-term health complications, particularly in urban populations. Bhaskar noted that the impact of this pollution is particularly severe in densely populated areas where auto rickshaws are heavily concentrated, resulting in poor air quality and exacerbating the already pressing issues of climate change and urban pollution.
Furthermore, Bhaskar emphasized that despite the growing awareness of environmental issues, the government and regulatory bodies have yet to implement effective solutions to curb the pollution generated by auto rickshaws. In his representation, he urged the concerned authorities to take immediate action by adopting measures that not only address the environmental concerns but also promote sustainable alternatives, such as electric auto rickshaws. Bhaskar suggested that encouraging the shift to electric vehicles (EVs) could play a pivotal role in reducing emissions and promoting cleaner, greener public transport systems.
Proposed Measures for Pollution Reduction and Promotion of Electric Autos
Subsidies and Financial Incentives:
Bhaskar recommended that the government provide subsidies or financial incentives to auto rickshaw owners and operators who make the switch from conventional fuel-based vehicles to electric rickshaws. This could include subsidies for the purchase of electric vehicles, tax breaks, or low-interest loans to make electric autos more affordable for those in the auto rickshaw business.Infrastructure Development for Charging Stations:
A significant barrier to the adoption of electric auto rickshaws is the lack of adequate charging infrastructure. Bhaskar called for the establishment of more public charging stations for electric vehicles, especially in areas where auto rickshaws are commonly operated. This infrastructure development would ensure that electric auto rickshaws have the necessary facilities for regular charging, making it a more practical option for drivers.Strict Emission Norms and Penalties for Polluting Vehicles:
Bhaskar urged the authorities to enforce stricter emission norms for auto rickshaws and penalize those found violating these standards. Regular emissions testing could be conducted to ensure that auto rickshaws meet the prescribed pollution standards. He suggested implementing fines for vehicles that do not meet these norms, incentivizing the transition to cleaner alternatives.Awareness Campaigns:
To foster a broader understanding of the environmental impact of fuel-based auto rickshaws, Bhaskar suggested launching awareness campaigns targeting both auto rickshaw operators and the general public. These campaigns would educate individuals about the health and environmental risks associated with air pollution caused by auto rickshaws and promote the benefits of switching to electric vehicles, including lower operating costs and reduced carbon footprint.Incentives for Eco-friendly Technology:
Bhaskar recommended that the government encourage the development of more efficient, eco-friendly technologies for auto rickshaws. This could include offering research grants or partnerships with manufacturers to create affordable, high-performance electric rickshaws. By incentivizing innovation, the authorities could help make electric autos more widely available and suitable for everyday use in urban transport.Long-term Policy Commitment:
Bhaskar called for a long-term policy commitment to reduce pollution from the transportation sector and promote the use of electric vehicles. This would involve creating a comprehensive roadmap for transitioning to sustainable modes of transport, with clear targets for reducing vehicle emissions and increasing the adoption of electric vehicles in the auto rickshaw sector.
Conclusion
In his representation, Advocate Rapolu Bhaskar emphasized that while the auto rickshaw sector is essential for urban mobility, it is also crucial to recognize the environmental and health risks posed by conventional fuel-based rickshaws. By adopting a multi-faceted approach that includes financial incentives, infrastructure development, stricter emissions regulations, and public awareness campaigns, the government can significantly reduce pollution levels in cities and encourage the transition to cleaner, electric auto rickshaws. Bhaskar’s representation underscores the need for timely intervention by the authorities to not only safeguard public health but also contribute to broader environmental sustainability goals. He urged the government to take decisive steps toward a greener future by facilitating the adoption of electric auto rickshaws and reducing the harmful impact of transportation pollution