NEW DELHI :
Incentives to use cleaner construction material, less polluting fuel for power generation and tighter norms for use of diesel in power generation are among steps required to improve air quality in the national capital region, a high level report said.
The “report on clean industry” jointly prepared by federal think tank NITI Aayog and Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) proposes steps to tackle emissions from construction and demolition as well as production and transportation of construction material. It also proposes policy measures to reduce energy-related emissions from diesel generators, thermal power plants and brick kilns. The proposals include promotion of clean construction practices, compulsory provisions for air quality management during construction and penalty by local bodies for violations, according to the report that will released on Monday.
A statement from CII said clean air action in the national capital region requires greater accountability from local agencies or authorities. Stringent penalties are proposed for public and private agencies alike, if they are found to be violating air quality standards and norms in their jurisdictions and operations, it said. “If we wish to breathe fresh air, it is imperative for the industry to adopt the recommendations of the report across sectors, be it manufacturing, energy generation or construction; and embed it into its business strategy, policies and future plans. Businesses should shift from environmental compliance to environmental stewardship for the sake of healthy planet,” said the statement quoting CII director general Chandrajit Banerjee.
