Roadside emission testing, a timely move
Roadside emission testing is an essential and timely step to improve
quality of ambient air and prevent risk of higher pollution in the face
of the increasing numbers of vehicles entering the country every year.
It also means that motorists can save on fuel.
Last year, Drive Green - one of the concessionaires operating
emission-testing centres - demonstrated the difference a simple
maintenance program, which includes cleaning air and oil filters
regularly, can have on fuel consumption.
The Estimated Fuel Efficiency report it issues with each Vehicle
Emission Test (VET) Report provides motorists a useful guide on how much
the vehicle wastes on fuel.
"Roadside emission tests help us keep track of emission levels of
vehicles on an ongoing basis," top officials involved in the initiative
said, adding, "Although an added chore, motorists can expect substantial
fuel savings and longer engine life due to better, more regular
maintenance."
"Our efforts should not be viewed negatively as efforts to punish
motorists but rather as efforts to reduce air pollution," Commissioner
General of the Motor Traffic Department, S. H. Harischandra said.
Air pollution levels have not increased although the numbers of
vehicles have. Ambient air quality measurements reflect that these
measures have been successful."
In fact, pollution levels have witnessed a reduction. Measured
against levels in 2009 - the year the VET program was launched - studies
carried out during 2012/13 by the National Building Organisation showed
a reduction in annual average Sulphur Dioxide levels at 15 locations in
Colombo. |