India-US Collaboration Towards Electrification of Public Transport & Achieving Net-Zero Emissions by 2070

The Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change emphasized the critical role of decarbonizing the transport sector to reduce Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions and achieve the ambitious net-zero emissions target by 2070 set by the Government of India. Speaking at a side event on the India-US “Payment Security Mechanism (PSM)” for e-buses, the Minister highlighted the significance of transitioning to electric vehicles (EVs), particularly electric buses, to achieve these environmental goals.

BIS revises Standards Relating to Automotive Vehicles

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has revised two standards relating to automotive vehicles. This notification was published on 6th November, 2023. Both these standards have been established on 25th October, 2023.

Urgent Actions Taken to Address Deteriorating Air Quality in Delhi-NCR Region

Citizens are urged to follow the GRAP measures and actively participate in maintaining and improving air quality in the region. Recommendations include using sustainable transportation options like cycling, carpooling, and public transport, working from home if possible, refraining from burning coal and wood for heating, and combining errands to reduce trips.

Digi Yatra Foundation to Perform Aadhaar Authentication at Airports

The Ministry of Civil Aviation issued a notification on the 17th of October 2023, regarding the utilization of digital platforms to enhance governance. Digi Yatra Foundation will conduct aadhaar authentication for passenger verification and e-KYC (Know Your Customer) purposes on the Digi Yatra App or Program.

Directives for Cleaner Public Transport Services in the NCR

The CAQM has been actively engaging with NCR states to develop comprehensive action plans aimed at transitioning to cleaner and more efficient bus services in the region. The ultimate goal is to have electric vehicles (EVs) for all bus services in the NCR within five years, with the medium-term objective of adopting EVs, compressed natural gas (CNG), and BS-VI diesel buses within three years.

Ministry of Railways revises the process of ex-gratia relief payment to the dependents of dead and injured passengers involved in Train Accidents and Untoward Incidents

Ministry of Railways has decided to revise the procedure of payment of ex-gratia relief to the dependents of dead and injured passengers involved in Train Accidents and Untoward Incidents as defined under Section 123 read with Section 124 and 124-A of the Railways Act, 1989 and to the road users who met with an accident due to Railway’s prima facie liability at Manned Level Crossing Gate Accident.