The Maharashtra government is exploring a ban on petrol and diesel vehicles in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) due to worsening air quality. A committee, led by retired IAS officer Sudhir Kumar Shrivastava, will study and provide recommendations within three months. This follows a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in the Bombay High Court, highlighting vehicular emissions as a major source of pollution.
The committee will review the feasibility of the ban and its impact on residents, vehicle owners, and the automotive sector. In 2024, Mumbai registered 2.79 lakh new vehicles, a 9.89% increase from the previous year. This ban could significantly affect vehicle sales and existing vehicle owners, especially those with older vehicles.
Mumbai is also expanding green transit initiatives like the Metro Network and increasing the Monorail’s operational capacity. The upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) will help decongest the city further.
Potential Consequences for Common People:
- Financial Burden: Many residents may struggle to afford eco-friendly vehicles like CNG or electric models, which are often more expensive.
- Transition Challenges: Limited charging infrastructure and high costs could slow the transition to greener options.
- Impact on Daily Commute: The ban might force people to rely more on public transport, which could face increased demand and congestion.
- Economic Impact: The automotive sector in Mumbai, a significant market for petrol and diesel vehicles, could see a decline in sales, affecting related businesses and employment.
Stay tuned for further updates as the committee submits its findings and recommendations.
