IEC 2025: Gadkari says Vehicle Emissions Cause Nearly 40 Percent of Delhi Air Pollution, Calls for Action

At the India Economic Conclave 2025, Nitin Gadkari highlighted the urgent need to combat rising air pollution and traffic congestion, particularly in Delhi. He noted that vehicular emissions significantly contribute to local pollution and emphasized the government's plan to invest Rs 1.5 lakh crore in infrastructure to enhance road capacity. Gadkari advocated for a shift to alternative fuels like green hydrogen and biofuels, while also addressing stubble burning as a pollution source. He called for coordinated efforts across various governmental sectors to tackle this complex issue effectively.

Photo : TIMES DRIVE

IEC 2025: Gadkari says Vehicle Emissions Cause Nearly 40 Percent of Delhi Air Pollution, Calls for Action

Speaking at the India Economic Conclave 2025 organised by Times Network, Minister of Road Transport and Highways of India (MoRTH) Nitin Gadkari addressed the audience outlining the need to address rising air pollution and traffic congestion, particularly in urban centres such as Delhi.

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What alternative fuels is the Indian government promoting to reduce pollution?

The Indian government is actively promoting a variety of alternative fuels to reduce pollution, including ethanol, methanol, biodiesel, LNG, and hydrogen. These fuels are expected to decrease dependence on fossil fuels, lower logistics costs, and contribute to India's energy transition. The government is particularly focused on the use of ethanol, which has already shown positive economic impacts for farmers in India.

How is the Indian government addressing the issue of crop stubble burning?

The Indian government is tackling crop stubble burning by implementing approximately 400 projects aimed at converting agricultural waste, particularly parali (rice straw), into biofuels. This initiative not only aims to reduce air pollution caused by burning but also enhances energy self-reliance by producing sustainable fuels from agricultural waste.

What role does green hydrogen play in India's future energy plans?

Green hydrogen is positioned as a key element in India's future energy strategy. The government aims to develop India as a global hub for green hydrogen production, emphasizing its potential for clean mobility due to near-zero tailpipe emissions. Gadkari has shared his vision of reducing the cost of green hydrogen to one dollar per kilogram, making it a more viable alternative fuel.

What measures are being taken to improve public transport in Delhi?

To enhance public transport in Delhi, the government plans to invest approximately Rs 65,000 crore, focusing on increasing the number of electric buses and improving infrastructure. The aim is to reduce the number of private vehicles on the road, thereby lowering air pollution levels and improving overall urban mobility.

How is the government addressing the economic impact of pollution in India?

The Indian government is addressing the economic impact of pollution by promoting alternative fuels and sustainable transportation solutions. By reducing reliance on fossil fuel imports, which cost the country approximately Rs 22 lakh crore annually, the government aims to lower logistics costs and improve economic activity while simultaneously tackling environmental issues.

At the event Gadkari said traffic density in India has reached very high levels, especially in metropolitan areas. He stated that Delhi is facing persistent challenges related to congestion and air quality. To address this, the government is planning infrastructure expenditure of Rs 1.5 lakh crore for the Delhi NCR region, aimed at improving road capacity, traffic flow and overall mobility. A smoother flow of traffic will result in lower emissions which will reduce air pollution as well.

Delhi Air Pollution: Vehicular Emissions A Major Contributor

According to Gadkari, vehicular emission contributes to around 40 percent of air pollution in Delhi NCR. He expressed the underlying need for interventions beyond temporary restrictions. He said reducing pollution linked to fossil fuels is achievable through policy, technology and better enforcement. To reduce vehicular emissions Gadkari urged for a shift from highly fossil based fuels like petrol and diesel to alternate fuels like flex-fuel, ethanol, ethanol blended fuel, biofuel, Methanol, EVs and green hydrogen.
The Indian government has set up the ‘Green Hydrogen Mission’ with the aim to make India the epicentre of green hydrogen and its technology. The central government wants to make India the middle east of green hydrogen. Gadkari has also been a great advocate for the use of green hydrogen and at the event he hailed it as the fuel of the future. He further went on to give examples stating that manufacturers in India are already testing hydrogen powered vehicles and the government is looking to scale this fuel of the future for a greener tomorrow.
Citing some long-term solutions to reduce air pollution, the minister highlighted that the government has already mandated the use of pre-cast technology in road construction, which helps reduce dust during execution. He suggested that similar construction methods could also be adopted in the building sector. He stated that dust, mud and muck which accumulates alongside the roads also remains a major concern. He suggested that agencies responsible for road maintenance must deploy proper equipment to remove mud, muck and dust from roads. Following which, these areas should either be planted with grass or or paved with concrete to prevent dust from becoming airborne again.

Delhi Air Pollution: Tackling Stubble Burning Issue

Shedding light on the issue of stubble burning, Gadkari said that the government is actively working on converting crop residue into useful products. He noted that stubble can be processed into fuels and other resources, reducing open-field burning and its contribution to seasonal pollution. He cited the ‘waste-to-wonder’ initiative for the same.

Delhi Air Pollution: Need For Coordinated Government Action

Calling air pollution a complex issue, Gadkari said multiple departments need to work together to arrive at a solution on priority. While the problem involves infrastructure, fuel, construction practices and agriculture, he expressed confidence that coordinated action can deliver results in the near term.
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