How to Reduce Pollution from your vehicles during Smog in Delhi

Considered the world’s most polluted city. Delhi’s air pollution reaching hazardous levels. Studies have shown that vehicle emissions from rising air pollution levels are playing a major role in smog in the city.

The toxic smog in the Capital has led to an emergency situation where schools have been closed, the odd-even rule has made a comeback and entry of truck has been banned. However, this won’t reduce the pollution caused by your cars on a daily basis. Here are few tips that can help to reduce the pollution produced by your car.

Warming up your car

If you have almost a new car then it’s ok but start warming up your car in mornings if it is a couple of years old. If you have a diesel car, make sure to warm it up for a few minutes before you leave to your destination.

Check tire pressure

This is really important. If you have all your run within city limits, keep tire pressure to maximum, following the instructions of the manufacturer. One can find tire pressure level on the driver or the passenger door after opening.

Get fuel from reputed stations

Always prefer refuelling from reputed fuel stations. If you are going to drive in the city only, do not go full tank. Full tank adds weights which burns more fuel, especially during pickups. Keep your tank 40-60% full.

Drive efficiently

You do not need AC all the time, especially winter seasons, turn off the engine on the red lights. When the car is idle and your engine is running, it lets off more pollutants, especially if you have a diesel car.

Maintain your car

It’s always beneficial to get your car serviced before the winter season. Regular oil change, wheel alignment, and proper tuning of the engine not just reduce pollution but it also increases your car’s life.

Accelerate smoothly

Driving aggressively causes more pollution, will increase your risk of having an accident and will cost you more in fuel. Avoid rapid acceleration and heavy braking, and use the minimum acceleration necessary, even in a traffic jam. Remember - accelerate smoothly, brake gently.

Slow down

Driving at higher speeds significantly increases fuel consumption, pollution and increases your risk of having an accident.

Carpool whenever possible

Car sharing is when two or more people travel together in the same car. It gives them the convenience of a car while reducing travel costs and congestion.

It can be used for just about anything - going to work, doing the weekly shopping, running the children to school, or taking in a show or sporting event.

Change your routine

If you can do flexible working, by starting and leaving work during non-peak traffic periods, say, 8am to 4pm or 10am to 6pm, you will contribute less to congestion and produce less pollution as a result of not idling in traffic jams.

Don't drive as much

One guaranteed way to reduce emissions from your vehicle is to simply not drive it as much. Instead of driving your car everywhere you go, consider taking public transportation. The fewer days than your vehicle is on the road, the lower levels of common-based pollution your vehicle will release into the atmosphere.