Haryana Chief Secretary Sanjeev Kaushal on Thursday said that the State Government has aimed to reduce air pollution levels by effectively implementing the Action Plan at the grassroots level. As a key part of this strategy, the government is introducing electric city bus service in urban areas and implementing a smart traffic management system statewide.
Addressing a one-day workshop organised by the Environment Department, the Chief Secretary said that so far, 28 lakh vehicles have been identified and labeled with stickers, and appropriate action has been taken against polluting vehicles. Additionally, efforts have been made to control dust generated by construction and demolition activities.
The Chief Secretary said that the State Government has undertaken several effective measures to improve air quality in the National Capital Region and surrounding areas of state. The Action Plan, in collaboration with the Forest and Environment and other departments, has led to an increase in greenery in the state, he said.
The Forest clusters have been formed by the Forest Department for Green Haryana, and Nagar Van and Nagar Vitkas are being expanded to promote tree plantation programs. Awareness campaigns are also being conducted at large-scale to encourage tree plantation drives.
The Chief Secretary said that, to combat pollution, strict measures have been taken against stubble burning, including criminal action. Adequate arrangements have been made for crop residue management, and the state has effectively banned the burning of firecrackers.
Furthermore, the state has become kerosene-free through the distribution of gas connections under the Ujjwala scheme.
The Chief Secretary further shared that the state strictly follows the policy of the Commission for Air Quality Management to control air pollution, including a focus on thermal power plants, clean fuel, electric mobility, public transport management, road traffic management, greenery, and tree plantation.
He said that the Industries and Commerce Department has effectively regulated the burning of industrial waste, transitioned to clean fuel, promoted electric mobility, and restricted the use of generator sets.