They told the bench that all fossil-fuel oriented plants in the country should introduce fuel gas desulfurization and other technique to reduce the discharge of pollutants from the smoke. "Direct the government to invoke its power under Essential Commodities Act to revise and control the price of diesel for private transport vehicles so that it is on par with petrol and not incentivise for private vehicles owners. Direct the Centre not to impose any import duty on electric and hybrid vehicles or in the alternative substantially reduce the import duty on them," the petition said.They have also sought direction to Punjab government to control stubble burning in the state and a special team be constituted by the state to monitor and take action in case of burning of farm waste. As per a report, around 35 million tons of stubble is burnt each year in September and October in Punjab and Haryana. "In the interim period, direct the Meteorological Department and Punjab government to advise farmers on safe windows for burning crops with strict penal action taken against those who transgress," the petition said.

Source: Times of India December 01, 2017 14:03 UTC