With its very large population of vehicular traffic, Delhi is one of the most polluted cities of the world. Which of the following steps were taken by the government to reduce vehicular pollution in Delhi ?
(i) Switching over the entire fleet of public transport i.e., buses, autorickshaws, from diesel to CNG
(ii) Phasing out of old vehicles
(iii) Use of unleaded petrol in vehicles
(iv) Use of low sulphur petrol and diesel in vehicles
(v) Use of catalytic converters in vehicles
(vi) Application of stringent pollution level norms for vehicles such as Euro-II norms, etc.

Options

A. (ii) and (iv)
B. (ii), (iv) and (v)
C. (iv) and (v)
D. All of these

Answer

To address the question regarding the steps taken by the government to reduce vehicular pollution in Delhi, we will analyze each of the proposed measures:

1. **Switching over the entire fleet of public transport from diesel to CNG**:
- The government made a significant move to switch public transport vehicles such as buses and auto-rickshaws from diesel to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG). CNG is a cleaner fuel compared to diesel, which helps in reducing air pollution.
- **Conclusion**: This step is true.

2. **Phasing out of old vehicles**:
- Older vehicles tend to emit more pollutants and smoke due to outdated technology and wear. The government has implemented policies to phase out these vehicles to improve air quality.
- **Conclusion**: This step is true.

3. **Use of unleaded petrol in vehicles**:
- The use of unleaded petrol is crucial as lead is a toxic substance that can harm both human health and the environment. Unleaded petrol helps in reducing harmful emissions from vehicles.
- **Conclusion**: This step is true.

4. **Use of low sulphur petrol and diesel in vehicles**:
- Low sulphur fuels produce fewer emissions compared to regular fuels. The government has promoted the use of low sulphur petrol and diesel to minimize air pollution.
- **Conclusion**: This step is true.

5. **Use of catalytic converters in vehicles**:
- Catalytic converters are devices that convert harmful gases from vehicle exhaust into less harmful emissions. Their use in vehicles significantly reduces air pollution.
- **Conclusion**: This step is true.

6. **Application of stringent pollution level norms for vehicles such as Euro-II norms**:
- The introduction of stringent pollution control norms, such as Euro-II standards, ensures that vehicles meet specific emission criteria, thereby reducing overall vehicular pollution.
- **Conclusion**: This step is true.

**Final Answer**: All the measures listed (i through vi) were taken by the government to reduce vehicular pollution in Delhi.