Indore's No Car Day on September 22 Aims to Improve Air Quality and Promote Eco-Friendly Transport

Indore, the commercial hub of Madhya Pradesh, will observe a no car day on 22 September. Mayor Pushyamitra Bhargava has encouraged residents to opt for eco-friendly transport options to ensure the initiative's success. Last year, the event saw 12% of cars off the roads, saving 80,000 litres of fuel and reducing sulphur monoxide emissions by 5.5%, along with an 18% drop in overall air pollution.

Residents are encouraged to use bicycles, e-rickshaws, and public transport to replicate last year's success. As of January 2023, Indore had 21,16,300 registered vehicles, including 3,38,353 cars. These figures were shared in March last year by then state transport minister Govind Singh Rajput. Officials note that around 400,000 cars operate daily in the city, including those from outside.

Impact of Vehicular Pollution

A study by Clean Air Catalyst highlights that vehicular pollution and road dust contribute to 70% of Indore's air quality issues. Dr Prakash Doraiswamy, a senior air quality scientist at Clean Air Catalyst, stated, "We are seeing vehicular smoke worsening air quality in the city. Participating in initiatives like No Car Day will give us an opportunity to use alternative modes of transport and reduce air pollution."

Indore has consistently been recognised as India's cleanest city according to the Union government's Swachh Survekshan survey. The city's efforts to maintain this status include initiatives like no car day, which aim to improve air quality by reducing vehicle emissions.

The no car day initiative not only helps in conserving fuel but also significantly reduces harmful emissions. By participating in such events, citizens can contribute to a cleaner environment and help sustain Indore's reputation for cleanliness.