Polluting vehicles remain unchecked despite strict PUC norms

Despite stringent screening and monitoring before pollution under control (PUC) certificates are issued, heavy smoke emissions from some heavy vehicles and city buses remain unchecked, raising serious concerns over air pollution. The authorities have also reportedly failed to identify old autorickshaws and vehicles with two-stroke engines that figure on the list of polluting vehicles.

Emissions containing pollutants such as carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides and fine particulate matter, which can adversely affect human health, remain a concern despite initiatives by the State and Union governments to promote electric vehicles through attractive financing schemes and subsidies. Health experts point out that prolonged exposure to polluted air increases the risk of respiratory problems and cardiovascular diseases.