How does Haryana law regulate vehicle pollution in Rohtak?

Detailed Legal Analysis

Haryana law regulates vehicle pollution in Rohtak primarily through the implementation of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, and the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, alongside state-specific regulations and guidelines.

Key measures and frameworks that govern vehicle pollution control in Haryana include:

• Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981: This act empowers the State Pollution Control Boards to set standards for air quality and to regulate emissions from various sources including vehicles.
• Haryana State Pollution Control Board (HSPCB): The HSPCB is responsible for monitoring air quality and enforcing pollution control measures, including those related to vehicular emissions.
• Emission Standards: Under the Central Motor Vehicle Rules, 1989, specific emission standards are set for different categories of vehicles, which are periodically updated to reflect advancements in technology and environmental standards.
• Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificates: As per the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019, all vehicles must obtain a PUC certificate to demonstrate compliance with emission standards. Vehicles failing to meet these standards may be fined or impounded.
• Periodic Inspections: Vehicles must undergo regular inspections to ensure compliance with pollution norms. HSPCB conducts random checks and inspections to enforce adherence.
• Incentives for Electric Vehicles (EVs): The Haryana government promotes the use of electric vehicles through subsidies and incentives under the Haryana Electric Vehicle Policy, 2020, aimed at reducing vehicular pollution.
• Awareness Campaigns: The state conducts awareness programs to educate the public about the impacts of vehicle emissions and the importance of maintaining vehicle health to minimize pollution.

Furthermore, the Haryana government has the authority to impose restrictions on the use of certain types of vehicles in highly polluted areas. This is in accordance with the directives issued by the National Green Tribunal and the Supreme Court regarding air quality management in urban areas.

In Rohtak, as part of its initiatives to combat pollution, local authorities may also implement measures such as:

• Encouraging public transport to reduce the number of private vehicles on the road.
• Implementing vehicle scrappage policies for older, more polluting vehicles.
• Creating low-emission zones to restrict access to high-polluting vehicles in certain areas.

Overall, the regulatory framework in Haryana, particularly in Rohtak, aims to ensure a significant reduction in vehicle-related pollution through stringent enforcement, public awareness, and promotion of cleaner alternatives.