Energy Transition Advisory Committee [Tarun Kapoor Committee]

The Energy Transition Advisory Committee (Tarun Kapoor Committee) in India has recommended a ban on diesel-powered four-wheeler vehicles in cities with over a million people by 2027, to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition to electric and gas-fuelled vehicles. In this article, you can read more about the recommendations of the committee to ban diesel vehicles and its significance from the IAS exam perspective.

Energy Transition Advisory Committee Recommendations

The Energy Transition Advisory Committee was set up by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas in 2021 to draw up an energy transition roadmap for the oil and gas sector under the chairmanship of former petroleum secretary Tarun Kapoor.

The key recommendations of the committee include:

• Ban the use of diesel-powered four-wheeler vehicles by 2027 in cities with a population of more than 1 million, and instead transition to electric and gas-fuelled vehicles.
• City transport should be a mix of Metro trains and electric buses by 2030.

Read more on electric vehicles in the linked article.

Rationale for Banning Diesel Vehicles

• Environmental Impact: Diesel vehicles contribute significantly to air pollution, which is a major environmental and health concern. They emit high levels of particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, and other harmful pollutants that can cause respiratory problems, lung cancer, and other health issues. By banning diesel vehicles, we can reduce the amount of air pollution and improve the quality of air for everyone.
• Climate Change: Diesel vehicles are also major contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, which are a major cause of climate change. By banning diesel vehicles, we can reduce the amount of greenhouse gas emissions and slow down the pace of climate change. This is particularly important given the urgent need to address climate change and its potential impacts on our planet.
• Public Health: Diesel vehicles not only harm the environment but also public health. Studies have shown that air pollution from diesel vehicles can lead to serious health problems such as asthma, heart disease, and cancer. By banning diesel vehicles, we can protect public health and improve the overall well-being of the population.
• Technological Advancements: Banning diesel vehicles can also stimulate the development of new and innovative technologies that are less harmful to the environment and public health. This can lead to a shift towards cleaner and more sustainable modes of transportation, such as electric or hybrid vehicles, which are less harmful to the environment and public health.
• International Agreements: Many countries around the world have already committed to phasing out diesel vehicles as part of their efforts to address climate change and reduce air pollution. By banning diesel vehicles, we can align our policies with international agreements and take a leadership role in promoting sustainable transportation globally.

Diesel Vehicles vs Petrol Vehicles

Conclusion: 

• The proposed ban on diesel vehicles could have both positive and negative implications. It may lead to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution, potential investment opportunities in the automotive sector, and accelerate the transition to renewable energy. 
• However, there may also be job losses in the diesel vehicle manufacturing sector and challenges in implementation, especially for commercial vehicles. Additionally, there could be resistance from stakeholders who have already invested in transitioning to the BS-VI emission norms. 
• Overall, careful consideration and planning are necessary to ensure a smooth transition to alternative fuels.

Energy Transition Advisory Committee [Tarun Kapoor Committee]:- Download PDF Here