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New Delhi, Oct 27 (IANS) The Supreme Court on Monday refused to entertain a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking directions to implement a star-rating system for vehicles across India to reduce air pollution and related health hazards.
Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai and Justice K. Vinod Chandran’s bench said the issue fell within the jurisdiction of the government and refused to interfere in the matter.
“Since the matter falls within the State’s domain, we are not inclined to interfere; however, the petitioner may make a representation to the Union of India, which will be considered on its merits,” the bench led by CJI Gavai ordered.
The petition, filed by Dr Sanjay Kulshrestha, who appeared personally, argued that the vehicle star-rating system, similar to that adopted in many developed countries, would empower consumers to make environmentally responsible choices and help curb vehicle pollution.
“Today, even in India, energy-based star ratings exist for refrigerators, ACs, so why not for automobiles. This is despite the fact that ACs and fridges are used indoors, while automobiles are on the road and have adverse effects on the health of others. Our luxuries should not create problems for others,” the PIL said, adding that this star rating would help consumers. Will encourage environment-friendly cars.
It highlighted that in India, air pollution caused 2.1 million deaths in 2021 and 60 per cent of these were attributed to PM2.5 – which is primarily emitted from vehicle exhaust.
Citing a study published in The Lancet Regional Health journal, the petition said data shows that high levels of PM2.5 air pollution causes about 33,000 deaths every year in major Indian cities like Delhi, Bengaluru and Mumbai.
–IANS
PDS/VD