Question

21. To deal with smog problem, the local governments in China and India have been known to restrict vehicle use for a few weeks during periods of severe smog problem. One approach used is to allow vehicles to run on streets on alternate days only (for example, even-numbered vehicles on one day and odd-numbered vehicles the next day).

(i) Is this kind of approach an economomically efficient way to get motor-vehicle emissions reduced to a desired/target level in our society ? Explain.
(ii) Suggest how we can use an emission tax policy to reduce motor-vehicle emissions to a desirable level in our society so as to deal with smog problem like mentioned above. Will the emission tax policy be cost-effective?

Answer 1

1. Yes, It will work out, atleast it will make a minor impact on the emviroment pollution.Cities like Delhi is facing the problem of smoke due to high use of motor vechiles and industires.If the number of vechiles reduces then there will be reduction of pollution and smog .Here in Delhi we experienced it. At the same time from the authority side they have to provide a proper public transport facilities to people to move around.

2. Imposing tax on emission that may not be a good idea. Because the giant industires will make use of it on the other side small industires may not be able to do anything atall . It will create a discrimation between industrialist. One best way is that from the government side let them make a proper public transport system . then the people can avoid private vehicles. That means it will be more benefical to all . Transport charge will low , low pollution, higher demand for public transport.