Convert three-wheelers into CNG, get incentive in Patna

PATNA: In a bid to curb pollution in Patna due to emission from diesel-operated autorickshaws, the state government has decided to provide incentives to those converting such vehicles into compressed natural gas (CNG).
Deputy CM Sushil Kumar Modi on Saturday said the state transport department is working on plans to convert all diesel-run three-wheelers in the city into CNG. He said the transport department has already stopped issuing permits to diesel-operated three-wheelers in Patna.
“As part of its crack down on vehicles emitting pollution, the government has stopped issuing permits to diesel-run three-wheelers.Also, the government will give incentives to people converting their diesel-run three-vehicles into CNG. The transport department is preparing an action plan in this regard,” Modi told TOI.
Sources in the transport department said more than 10,000 autorickshaws run in Patna. Of them, only around 1,500 are CNG-operated. The supply of CNG is done at two fuel stations in the city – one Rukanpura and another on Bypass Road.
The deputy CM said the number of CNG refilling points in the city would be increased soon.
The supply of CNG in Patna is being done under the city gas distribution scheme, which was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Begusarai on February 17. As per an estimate, an autorickshaw can run up to 45km with 1 kg CNG in Patna, while a four-wheeler can cover a distance of 30km.
The deputy CM claimed that steps were also being taken to curb noise pollution due to vehicles.
“Cases of hearing impairment are on the rise due to needless honking and steps are being taken in a phase-wise manner to stop the problem. Drivers of government vehicles will be given training in this regard and action taken against motorists,” SuMo said.