The article, “ >Green Goals for the Delhi aam aadmi ” (May 1), though well-intentioned, seems to have strayed into questionable territory in its proposal to cap the number of licences issued in the city (following Singapore’s model). The problem with a cap and subsequent auctioning off of licences will make the ability to drive a car a privilege available only to the upper class. At projected rates of Rs.12 lakh, the middle class and lower classes will have to forego their right to drive a vehicle. While this may seem a positive development for pollution levels, the less well-off will be victims of a discriminatory system. For instance, if there is a medical emergency and a family member needs to be driven to a hospital, does this mean a person who has not shelled out Rs.12 lakh will have to take public transport to reach his/her destination?
Saumya Varma,New Delhi
Auctioning of licences as a solution to control pollution is whimsical and bound to fail in the backdrop of rampant corruption. The emphasis on the use of public transportation, compulsory afforestation, parking problems, and acting concurrently with the NGT are more what the permanent solution should look like rather than adopting one that creates chaos. Laws should create confidence in people rather than fear.
Naveen Bijender Chhillar,Bahadurgarh, Haryana
The auctioning of licences is a wonderful idea to gradually reduce the number of vehicles in the city. And this would lead to much needed improvements in the quality of air we breath. However, my questions: wouldn’t Rs.12 lakh be a very high amount per licence, even for the well to do? Also how do you arrive at such a figure? Using the Singapore example, the amount to be charged in India is quite a stretch. I can also imagine the amount of protests such a move will generate.
Amit Yadav,New Delhi
