LPG as automobile fuel a solution for Delhi NCR air pollution: IAC

The Indian Auto LPG Coalition (IAC) has stressed that liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) as automobile fuel could be the cleaner and cheaper alternative solution for reducing the air pollution in the Delhi National Capital Region (NCR).

As India participates in COP29, IAC calls for immediate inclusion of Auto LPG in climate and energy security strategies.

According to IAC, with the winter approaching, the air quality in the NCR has already worsened, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) regularly touching almost 400, classifying it as 'very poor.' 

In response, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has activated the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-II) to combat pollution. 

Under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), residents are encouraged to minimise their use of personal vehicles and opt for public transport instead. 

To further discourage the reliance on private transport, vehicle parking fees will be increased. Additionally, individuals are advised to take less congested routes, even if they are slightly longer, and to regularly replace air filters in their automobiles. 

From October to January, residents should refrain from any construction activities that could generate dust. It is also recommended to avoid the open burning of solid waste and biomass to help improve air quality in the region.

The IAC is for converting conventional vehicles to auto LPG powered ones which in turn would lower harmful pollutants, such as particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, and carbon dioxide, but also enhance fuel efficiency and reduce operating costs. 

Currently, auto LPG powers over 27 million vehicles worldwide, with 4.2 million vehicles running on it in India. With minimal infrastructure investment required, it can serve as an immediate solution to vehicular pollution while complementing electric vehicle adoption efforts, IAC argued.

The IAC also calls for supportive policies, including lowering Goods and Services Tax (GST) rates for Auto LPG, ensuring a level playing field, and its inclusion in clean mobility strategies.

“With 33 crore vehicles contributing to pollution in India, and nearly 40% of urban pollution coming from vehicles, transitioning to Auto LPG offers an effective, affordable solution that can be immediately implemented. This technology has been proven worldwide and can be rapidly deployed to tackle our pollution crisis,” said Suyash Gupta, Director General, IAC. 

The IAC is the nodal body for the promotion of Auto LPG in India. Members of the Coalition include the Oil Sector PSUs, Private Auto LPG marketers, Kit Suppliers and Equipment Manufacturers.