(a) the steps being taken by the Government to achieve goal of reducing
pollution emission intensity by 20-25% by 2020;
(b) the details of the action taken in this regard;
(c) whether there is a proposal to introduce a congestion pricing policy
to effectively tax heavy good vehicles; and
(d) if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor?
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS
(SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN)
(a) & (b) The Government has announced the domestic goal of reducing emissions
intensity of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 20-25% by 2020 in comparison
with 2005 level. In this regard, a National Action Plan on Climate Change
(NAPCC) launched by the Government of India on June 30, 2008 envisages India’s
strategy to meet the challenge of Climate Change including reduction in
emissions. The NAPCC includes eight Missions in specific area of Solar Energy,
Enhanced Energy Efficiency, Sustainable Habitat, Water, Sustaining the
Himalayan Eco-system, Green India, Sustainable Agriculture and Strategic
knowledge for Climate Change.
The objectives of these Missions are to support India’s policies for
sustainable development by way of promotion of energy efficiency, appropriate
mix of fuels and primary energy sources including nuclear, hydro and renewable
sources, energy pricing, pollution abatement, afforestation and mass transport.
(c) & (d) As regards the introduction of a congestion pricing policy to
effectively tax heavy good vehicles, there is no proposal under consideration
of Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.