Meghalaya Cabinet Approves Vehicle Scrappage Policy to Tackle Air Pollution

The Meghalaya Cabinet has approved a new vehicle scrappage policy aimed at curbing air pollution across the state, with a particular focus on urban areas experiencing deteriorating air quality. The decision was taken during a cabinet meeting held on May 1 and chaired by Chief Minister Conrad Sangma. The policy is a significant move in the state's environmental efforts, targeting the removal of old and unfit vehicles that are contributing to high levels of pollution.

Government spokesperson Paul Lyngdoh announced that under the new policy, approximately 13,000 vehicles deemed unfit for use will be scrapped. These include 5,000 government-owned vehicles and 8,000 privately-owned ones. Lyngdoh clarified that the policy would apply to "old dilapidated cars, which are no longer roadworthy," and will not indiscriminately target all old vehicles but specifically those that are inefficient and contribute to environmental degradation.

The policy’s introduction is timely, following a worrying report by the Central Pollution Control Board that named Byrnihat, a town in Meghalaya, as the most polluted urban area in the country for the second year in a row. Byrnihat recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 302, which falls into the "very poor" category, indicating serious health hazards due to prolonged exposure. This revelation has brought the issue of air pollution to the forefront of the state's policy agenda.

Lyngdoh provided further insight into the scale of vehicle usage in the state, stating that Shillong alone has more than 2.76 lakh registered vehicles, making it a key area of concern. Tura and Jowai are also significant urban centers with a high number of vehicles contributing to pollution. “We will now start addressing concerns relating to air pollution caused by inefficient and old vehicles,” he said, adding that the government is committed to implementing the policy in a phased and considerate manner.

To ensure a smooth transition and reduce the economic burden on residents, the policy will first focus on scrapping 15-year-old government vehicles. Only later will it extend to private vehicles, and even then, only those that are 35 years old or older will be considered for scrapping. “Taking into account the overall economic condition of the people of the state, we will address the matter by first taking off government vehicles,” Lyngdoh explained, highlighting the government's sensitivity to public concerns and financial limitations.

This phased approach is expected to minimize public resistance while still achieving the policy's environmental goals. The initiative marks a critical step towards improving air quality in Meghalaya and demonstrates the government’s willingness to act decisively on environmental issues. By targeting vehicles that are no longer roadworthy, the policy aims to make a tangible impact on reducing emissions and improving public health outcomes in the long run.