In response to hazardous air quality levels, the Noida Authority unveiled a comprehensive pollution-control roadmap on Tuesday. The multi-pronged strategy focuses on reducing vehicular emissions, accelerating the adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles, expanding charging infrastructure, and cracking down on open burning and other polluting practices.
Leading by Example: Authority's Fleet Goes Green
The Authority has decided to begin its clean-up mission with its own operations. All office vehicles owned by the Noida Authority will be switched to electric models. Furthermore, the city's sanitation fleet, which includes 180 small, 215 mini, and 70 large vehicles used daily for door-to-door waste collection, will be transitioned to electric, CNG, or BS VI-compliant alternatives.
Noida Authority CEO Lokesh M stated that this move is a conscious step to set an example. "Before asking others to act, we want to fix our own house first. Transitioning our vehicles to electric and cleaner fuels is a conscious step to set an example for all stakeholders," he said. He highlighted that sanitation vehicles, operating for long hours daily, have a direct impact on local air quality, and their replacement is expected to substantially cut tailpipe emissions.
Supercharging EV Infrastructure and Immediate Curbs
Recognizing past shortcomings, the Authority will relaunch its EV charging station program. A fresh survey has identified 150 potential locations, with 81 new EV charging stations slated for installation within the next three months. Additionally, 69 underperforming existing stations will be replaced to build a more robust network.
To support commercial users, a battery swapping network for electric two-wheelers and commercial vehicles is planned. Thirteen battery swapping stations, with a total of 44 batteries, are proposed to be operational across Noida by March 2026, funded through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) contributions.
Under immediate Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) measures:
- IT companies and universities are advised to implement work-from-home during Stages III and IV to reduce traffic.
- Educational institutions must shift to online/hybrid classes, defer large events, and encourage public transport use.
- An immediate ban has been imposed on coal- and firewood-based tandoors across hotels, restaurants, and street eateries until pollution improves.
- Industries must retrofit diesel generators to use a 70% gas and 30% diesel mix within seven days.
Strict Enforcement on Major Pollution Sources
Officials identified vehicular emissions, particularly in IT parks, institutional hubs, and congested corridors, as a major pollution source. The CEO warned of zero tolerance for violations, stating, "We have made it clear that factories must not emit polluted air or gases." High-polluting industrial units are being flagged for priority inspections.
This roadmap represents Noida Authority's aggressive attempt to tackle the persistent air quality crisis through systemic changes, infrastructure upgrades, and strict regulatory enforcement.
