Green watchdogs say auto pollution checks are flawed

According to B. Sengupta, Member Secretary, CPCB, “PUC checks are not a very effective means of controlling pollution. To check pollution, vehicles need to be properly maintained and monitored.” At a recent presentation, Anil Agarwal, Director, CSE, quoted the experience of developed countries. Experts say the current tests are flawed because a vehicle could easily pass the test by merely adjusting its engine on the day of the test and go back to the earlier adjustment the next day.

To pass the test, several mechanics simply adjust the engine for a lean flow which reduces acceleration and the vehicle tends to stall at traffic lights.

Moreover, there is no evidence to suggest that such programmes — known as inspection and maintenance programmes — have made any difference to the ambient air quality in any city.

According to the CSE, the contention that all vehicles tend to pollute more with age is wrong. Therefore, the onus for emissions control should move to the manufacturer instead of the vehicle owner. This can be achieved by the installation of an onboard diagnostic computer so that the motorist knows what the tailpipe is emitting. Also, the CSE says that manufacturers must give the consumer an emission warranty. Under this warranty, the manufacturer must pay for all cost of repair and replacement of components (like the catalytic converter) if the vehicle is causing pollution during the warranty period. Companies in the USA and Sweden are already making such guarantees. The CSE has also recommended that the CPCB check a sample of vehicles every two to three years, belonging to a particular year and make.