Undertaken By: Centre for Science and Environment, Recent Publication: 2019
Emissions arising from the movement of vehicles is a major cause of deteriorating air quality in cities. More than 70% of Indian cities are classified as critically polluted and vehicles are among the highest source of exposure. In cities like Delhi, vehicles contribute up to 40% of the particulate pollution load. Policy makers have noted the necessity of controlling emissions from the rising number of vehicles. In 2015, India took a landmark decision to leapfrog from Bharat Stage IV to Bharat Stage (BS) VI emission standards countrywide by April 2020. But there is still a long way to go in order for these standards to be implemented effectively. This can potentially hinder gains from technology and fuel transitions.