Chandigarh, June 26: Haryana has unveiled a roadmap to enhance the Clean Air Campaign in the National Capital Region (NCR). This initiative includes the introduction of new electric buses, expanding the air quality monitoring network from 22 to 45 centers, implementing the ‘No Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC), No Fuel’ policy, and reconstructing nearly 1,000 kilometers of urban roads, officials announced on Friday.
In a high-level meeting under the framework of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), the state’s Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi reviewed the multi-sectoral action plan. He instructed all relevant departments to ensure timely implementation of these initiatives so that pollution control measures are fully operational before the winter season.
Additional Chief Secretary (Transport) Raja Shekhar Vundru stated that Haryana plans to introduce 925 electric buses this year in Gurugram, Faridabad, Sonipat, Panipat, Karnal, and Rohtak. Currently, 70 electric buses are already in operation, with purchase orders placed for an additional 385 buses.
This initiative is expected to significantly reduce emissions from vehicles and promote clean and sustainable public transport. To strengthen air pollution monitoring, Haryana is also expanding its network of ambient air quality monitoring centers.
According to an official statement, there are currently 22 operational monitoring centers in the NCR, with 23 additional centers being established. Work orders for two centers are expected to be issued by mid-July, while tenders for the remaining centers will be released soon.
The goal is to have the expanded monitoring network fully operational by September 30, enabling comprehensive real-time monitoring during the winter pollution season. Reviewing vehicle emission control, Chief Secretary Rastogi assessed preparations for implementing the ‘No PUCC, No Fuel’ initiative starting October 1.
Officials reported that an Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) system is being installed at all 2,780 petrol pumps in NCR districts. The first phase will include 775 petrol pumps in Gurugram, Faridabad, Jhajjar, and Sonipat, while the remaining 2,005 pumps will be covered ahead of schedule.
Once operational, this system will electronically verify pollution control certificates before dispensing fuel. The meeting also reviewed actions against old vehicles.
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