ANNOUNCEMENTS
Transitioning to zero-emission (ZE) trucking in Delhi is a critical step towards addressing climate concerns and energy security, with significant socio-economic implications on the public and trucking value chain actors. Various studies indicate that reducing emissions in major sectors like transportation, offers social and economic benefits for the nation. Implementing policies for promoting ZE trucking in Delhi can yield substantial health and economic co-benefits, with estimated savings (per capita) of about INR 183 crores by avoiding approx. 4000 mortality cases attributed to particulate matter (PM) emissions from commercial vehicles (CVs) annually. Apart from these social benefits, transitioning to ZETs could save estimated economic costs of approx. INR 6,750 crores and INR 1,340 crores attributed to specifically PM2.5 and NOx emissions from CVs respectively. Moreover, this paper also studies the impact of transition on direct employment (drivers and assistants). This study reveals that this shift will impact employment and livelihoods within the trucking sector, necessitating training and reskilling for among 2.65lakh direct job workers to ensure a seamless transition. Lastly, the paper also examines the impact on other stakeholders like power companies, fuel stations, after-sales market and state and central government to provide a comprehensive understanding of the broader implications of this transition.
The transformation of trucking sector in Delhi is vital for sustainable development and meeting nationally determined contribution (NDC) commitments through strategic and targeted policies. Addressing vehicular emissions is imperative, given Delhi’s severe pollution levels. Mitigating these impacts demands effective policies. Policy recommendations to promote accelerated adoption of ZETs in Delhi include establishing designated green freight corridors, incentivizing charging infrastructure for ZE trucking and introducing green procurement policies. These measures are important for ensuring a smooth transition, mitigating city's severe pollution levels, and maximizing benefits for all stakeholders.
KEYWORDS: Zero-Emission Trucks, Transition, Socio-economic, Road Freight, Commercial Vehicles.
