The Energy Transition Advisory Committee, also known as the Tarun Kapoor Committee, has made a monumental proposal. The committee suggests that diesel-powered four-wheeler vehicles should be outlawed in Indian cities with a population exceeding one million by the year 2027. This proposal is part of an effort to decrease greenhouse gas emissions and promote the use of electric and gas-fuelled vehicles. In this article, we'll delve into the committee's recommendations and their potential implications.
Energy Transition Advisory Committee Recommendations - Tarun Kapoor Committee
The Recommendations of the Energy Transition Advisory Committee
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas established the Energy Transition Advisory Committee in 2021. The committee, chaired by former petroleum secretary Tarun Kapoor, was tasked with creating an energy transition roadmap for the oil and gas sector.
The committee's main recommendations are as follows:
- By 2027, diesel-powered four-wheeler vehicles should be banned in cities with a population of over 1 million. Instead, there should be a transition towards electric and gas-fuelled vehicles.
- By 2030, city transport should primarily consist of Metro trains and electric buses.
You can learn more about electric vehicles in the linked article.
The Reasoning Behind the Proposed Diesel Vehicle Ban
- Environmental Impact: Diesel vehicles significantly contribute to air pollution, a major environmental and health concern. They emit high levels of pollutants, including particulate matter and nitrogen oxides, which can cause a variety of health issues. Banning diesel vehicles could lead to improved air quality.
- Climate Change: Diesel vehicles are a major source of greenhouse gas emissions, a key factor in climate change. By eliminating diesel vehicles, we can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and slow the progression of climate change.
- Public Health: The pollution caused by diesel vehicles can lead to serious health problems, including asthma, heart disease, and cancer. Banning these vehicles could lead to improved public health.
- Technological Advancements: The proposed ban could stimulate the development of innovative, less harmful technologies. This could result in a shift towards cleaner, more sustainable modes of transportation, such as electric or hybrid vehicles.
- International Agreements: Many countries have committed to phasing out diesel vehicles as part of their climate change and air pollution reduction efforts. By banning diesel vehicles, we can align our policies with international agreements and take a leadership role in promoting sustainable transportation.
Diesel Vehicles vs Petrol Vehicles: A Comparison
| Factor | Diesel Vehicle | Petrol Vehicle |
| Fuel Cost | Diesel fuel generally costs less per litre, but the vehicles have lower fuel efficiency. | Petrol costs more per litre, but the vehicles have higher fuel efficiency. |
| Vehicle Cost | Diesel vehicles are typically more expensive. | Petrol vehicles are typically less expensive. |
| Engine Performance | Diesel vehicles have higher torque and are better for towing. | Petrol vehicles have higher horsepower and are better for acceleration. |
| Emissions | Diesel vehicles generally produce more NOx and particulate matter. | Petrol vehicles generally produce less NOx and particulate matter. |
| Maintenance | Diesel vehicles generally require more expensive maintenance and repairs. | Petrol vehicles generally require less expensive maintenance and repairs. |
Conclusion:
- The proposed diesel vehicle ban could have both positive and negative effects. On the positive side, it could lead to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution, potential investment opportunities in the automotive sector, and an accelerated transition to renewable energy.
- However, the ban could also lead to job losses in the diesel vehicle manufacturing sector and implementation challenges, particularly for commercial vehicles. There could also be resistance from stakeholders who have already invested in transitioning to the BS-VI emission norms.
- Careful consideration and planning are essential to ensure a smooth transition to alternative fuels.
| Related Links | |||
| Paris Agreement | UNFCCC | ||
| India’s Net Zero Plan Document at COP27 | National Hydrogen Mission | ||
| Ethanol blending programme | UPSC Books | ||
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