DPCC Launches Innovation Challenge To Curb Vehicle Emissions in Delhi

The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) on Friday launched an Innovation Challenge, inviting startups, academic institutions, and environmental tech firms to propose low-cost, scalable solutions to reduce emissions from overage vehicles in the capital, according to a report by the Times of India.

The challenge specifically seeks technologies that can effectively trap and reduce fine particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) the key pollutants contributing to Delhi’s deteriorating air quality. The goal is to double the filtration efficiency of current methods and create retrofit devices or treatment systems that can be installed on older commercial and personal vehicles still in use despite age restrictions.

DPCC is particularly keen on concepts that are affordable, long-lasting, simple to fit, and can be employed in mass deployment in a city like Delhi with lakhs of vehicles plying daily. Several older vehicles especially diesel-powered have been found to spew much more pollutants than new BS-VI compliant ones. Existing regulations restrict their operation, but enforcement is hard, and retrofitting could prove to be a workable option.

The innovation challenge will also offer funding, mentorship, and a platform for piloting chosen technologies in actual conditions with government support. The project is likely to not just fund local innovation ecosystems but also assist in the development of India-specific solutions to address vehicular emissions.

The move is made as Delhi continues to fight high pollution levels, particularly in winter. With farm stubble burning in surrounding states, construction dust, and vehicle emissions being the predominant sources of pollution, the authorities now eye technology-based solutions to usher in long-term change.

DPCC officials said successful concepts from this challenge might also be replicated in other cities and states struggling with similar air quality issues.

Source: Times of India