Chandigarh witnesses decline in carbon emissions

Chandigarh, in anticipation of World Environment Day on June 5, has reported a significant reduction of over 875 tonnes of carbon emissions between December 2020 and April 2023, according to data released by Smart City Limited. Anindita Mitra, the Municipal Corporation Commissioner, attributes this positive development to the successful implementation of two eco-friendly initiatives: the public bike-sharing project and the adaptive traffic control system (ATCS).

Both projects have been executed as part of the smart city project. The bike-sharing project, initially launched as a pilot in December 2020 and later expanded in three phases, currently boasts a fleet of 3,750 bicycles stationed across 465 docking points throughout the city.

Highlighting the project's benefits, Mitra emphasised that over 300,000 users have registered, completing a remarkable total of 875,000 rides covering more than 3,500,000 km. She further added that this achievement has resulted in the prevention of over 875 tonnes of CO2 emissions.

Mitra stated that the bike-sharing project represents a significant stride towards combating air pollution and promoting a healthier lifestyle among residents. Cycling, e-biking, and walking are effective means of addressing the climate crisis.

The ATCS, according to the data, has contributed to saving 61 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions and Rs 25 lakh in fuel consumption every month. This initiative involves the installation of intelligent traffic signals equipped with sensors capable of detecting approaching traffic intensity. The collected information is then transmitted to the ATCS control centre, enabling the signals to adjust in real time, thereby optimizing traffic flow. This system has been successfully implemented at 40 intersections.

Mitra explained, "By analysing the data collected from the traffic sensors, we calculated the average savings in fuel consumption, reduction in travel time, and greenhouse gas emissions. The results indicated that the system has effectively curtailed 61 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions and saved Rs 25 lakh in fuel costs per month.”

The concerted efforts towards sustainable mobility and traffic management in Chandigarh exemplify the city's commitment to environmental preservation and its determination to tackle climate change head-on.