Delhi to Transition Cargo Transport from Diesel Trucks to EVs to Reduce Winter Pollution

Delhi is set to implement a freight interchange programme to reduce winter pollution by transitioning cargo transport from diesel trucks to electric vehicles (EVs).  

This initiative involves creating logistics hubs around the National Capital Region (NCR) where cargo from long-haul diesel trucks will be transferred to EVs before entering Delhi as per The Business Standard news report. 

Logistics Hubs for Freight Interchange 

The plan involves developing 5 multimodal logistics hubs in Sonipat, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, Greater Noida, and Gurugram as part of the National Highways for EV (NHEV) initiative.  

Diesel trucks will stop at these hubs to unload cargo, which will then be transported into Delhi by electric trucks. 

This approach aims to address the recurring issue of pollution during winter. When pollution levels rise, stricter measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (Grap) are enforced, restricting diesel truck entry into Delhi and causing delays in freight movement. 

Operational Framework of the Freight Interchange System 

Under the proposed system, diesel trucks will unload cargo or exchange trailers at logistics hubs outside Delhi.  

Electric trucks will then deliver goods to warehouses, distribution centres, or customers within the city. The long-term goal is for only zero-emission freight vehicles to enter Delhi. 

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Rationale Behind the Proposal 

The proposal aligns with Delhi's move towards a permanent winter pollution management framework. The Winter Pollution Action Plan, effective from November 1 to February 28, consolidates several pollution-control measures.  

The plan is based on a review of air quality over the past 3 years, which showed worsening pollution levels between November and mid-February, with median AQI values ranging from 312 to 342. 

Impact of Grap Restrictions 

Under Stage IV of Grap, diesel medium and heavy goods vehicles are restricted from entering Delhi, except for those carrying essential commodities.  

These restrictions often result in trucks waiting outside Delhi, delaying deliveries and disrupting supply chains.  

Heavy trucks contribute around 23% of transport-sector PM2.5 emissions, with their impact increasing during nighttime freight movement. 

Conclusion 

The freight interchange model seeks to reduce emissions from freight transport by allowing diesel trucks to stop outside Delhi while electric vehicles complete the last-mile journey. This initiative is part of Delhi's broader strategy to manage winter pollution, which includes measures like enforcing Pollution Under Control Certificates and restricting non-BS VI vehicles. 

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