New Delhi. To control the increasing pollution in the country’s capital Delhi, the government has started ‘No PUCC, No Fuel’ campaign. As soon as this system was implemented, large scale action was seen in the first 24 hours. Between December 17 and 18, more than 61,000 pollution under control certificates (PUCC) were issued in the capital, while challans were issued to 3,746 vehicles running without a valid PUCC.
The government has a clear message that vehicles which do not have a valid PUCC will not get petrol or diesel. Under this, strictness has been increased at many petrol pumps and border points of Delhi.
Strict checking at border points
About 5,000 vehicles were checked at the entry points of Delhi. 568 vehicles were turned back from entering Delhi for violating the rules. Additionally, 217 non-destinated trucks were not allowed to enter Delhi and were diverted to the Eastern and Western Peripheral Expressways. The government says that special attention is being kept on heavy vehicles coming from outside states so that unnecessary traffic and pollution can be prevented in the city.
Inspection at petrol pumps, strict instructions
Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa conducted surprise inspection of petrol pumps in many areas including Delhi-Gurugram border, Janpath. He gave clear instructions that fuel should not be given to any vehicle without valid PUCC. Along with this, emphasis was also laid on installing clear signboards at petrol pumps, arranging for PUCC checking and organizing the queues so that the common people do not face inconvenience and rules are followed.
Focus on road cleaning and dust control
Apart from vehicles, the government has also intensified action against dust and dirt considering it as a major cause of pollution. According to the report, mechanical cleaning of 2,300 kilometers of roads has been done so far. Apart from this, anti-smog guns were used in 5,524 km area to reduce airborne dust. Special attention is being given to construction sites and busy areas.
Action on illegal garbage dumping
According to the government, simultaneous action is being taken on all four fronts to control pollution – vehicles, dust, garbage and trucks. 132 illegal garbage dumping sites causing pollution in the city have been closed. Also, 38,019 metric tons of old waste deposited at landfill sites has been disposed of.
