The Delhi government’s transport department is set to roll out a comprehensive, four-pronged approach aimed at alleviating traffic congestion and promoting the use of eco-friendly fuels , reported TOI. The initiative will focus on vehicle-restricted areas, transitioning municipal vehicles and final-delivery transport to electric alternatives, introducing congestion pricing , and enforcing the use of only BS6-standard or electric trucks, while also ensuring the scrapping of overaged vehicles.

According to TOI, as part of its efforts to combat traffic snarls and pollution, the department, in collaboration with a think tank, has outlined a plan for congestion pricing.

The proposal involves charging vehicles entering the city at 13 major border points, targeting both private four-wheelers and commercial vehicles during peak hours—8am to 10am and 5:30pm to 7:30pm.

The think tank has recommended using automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) and radio frequency identification (RFID) technologies for vehicle detection.

Additionally, it has suggested that the congestion charges should be based on a baseline price, which could vary depending on factors like the GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan) levels, vehicle fuel type, and BS emission standards.

Funds collected through the congestion charges, as well as any related penalties, are proposed to be directed exclusively toward enhancing public transport and improving road infrastructure, with a particular focus on vulnerable road users, including cyclists and pedestrians, noted the TOI report.

A senior official from the transport department noted that while the proposal is under consideration, there are significant legal hurdles that must be addressed before implementation, particularly since current legislation lacks clear provisions for congestion fees.

The official added that while executing the scheme before the elections would be challenging, it remains part of the department's long-term strategy.

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While specific areas have yet to be identified, the goal is to establish car-free zones in shopping-friendly locations, which would require cooperation from multiple agencies to make the areas more pedestrian-friendly.

In line with the department's green initiatives, a study conducted by the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) has explored the feasibility of converting municipal trucks into electric vehicles (EVs) to curb pollution in Delhi, said TOI. The ministry of heavy industries has also formed an EV task force, with the ICCT leading efforts related to electric trucks and supporting infrastructure development.

The transport department is expected to introduce policies promoting electric vehicles in its upcoming EV policy.

On the topic of enforcing BS6-standard or electric trucks, the official pointed out that traffic police regularly monitor border points to ensure compliance.

Another official mentioned that artificial intelligence and technology will be used to identify vehicles violating the standards, with penalties for offenders.