National Green Tribunal Demands Star Rating System for Passenger Vehicles

The National Green Tribunal has requested responses from three Union ministries on implementing a star rating system for passenger vehicles based on fuel efficiency and carbon dioxide emissions. The Tribunal emphasized that vehicular pollution significantly contributes to air pollution and called for replies by January 10.

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed three Union ministries, including the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, to provide answers regarding the introduction of a star rating system for all passenger vehicles. This system evaluates vehicles based on fuel efficiency and carbon dioxide emissions.

During a session on September 20, NGT Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava emphasized that vehicular pollution is a major contributor to air pollution. The Ministry of Earth Sciences supported this claim, stating that vehicular pollution accounts for about 40% of air pollution.

The bench, which includes judicial member Justice Arun Kumar Tyagi and expert member Afroz Ahmad, acknowledged a request from the Ministry of Power for a four-week period to submit their response. The NGT has issued notices to the other respondents, who include the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and the Ministry of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises. The replies are due by January 10.

(With inputs from agencies.)