Govt Determined To Prevent An Urban Pollution Crisis: Uttam

· Minister Uttam launches ‘ERaja L-5 Segment Electric Auto’ by Rap Eco Motors

· E-vehicles can save our health, lives, and future: Uttam Kumar Reddy

Hyderabad, November 23: Irrigation Minister N Uttam Kumar Reddy reaffirmed the Telangana government’s commitment to promoting electric vehicles (EVs) as part of its strategy to combat the escalating pollution crisis in urban areas.

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Speaking at the launch of the ‘E-Raja L-5 Segment Electric Auto,’ a ‘Make in India’ product by Rap Eco Motors, at the Administrative Staff College of India (ASCI) on Saturday, Uttam Kumar Reddy highlighted the urgent need for both immediate and long-term measures to address urban pollution, which is severely affecting public health, economic productivity, and environmental sustainability.

Uttam Kumar Reddy pointed to alarming trends in cities like Delhi, where air quality is deteriorating rapidly due to the increasing number of vehicles on the roads. “Vehicle emissions are among the largest contributors to urban pollution, leading to a surge in respiratory diseases, reduced life expectancy, and worsening overall health conditions. This is a crisis that requires swift and decisive action,” he said. Drawing parallels with Delhi’s air quality emergency, he warned, “Unchecked pollution could push our cities into a similar health and environmental catastrophe, forcing people to live under unlivable conditions. Telangana is determined to prevent such a scenario.”

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He informed that, as part of its green mobility initiative, the Telangana government has implemented a 100% exemption on road tax and registration fees for electric vehicles across various categories, including two-wheelers, three-wheelers (autorickshaws and light goods carriers), and electric buses. These incentives are designed to reduce upfront costs and make EV ownership accessible for both individuals and businesses. He also highlighted that the state has extended additional support to electric buses operated by the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TGSRTC), which enjoy indefinite exemptions. Furthermore, private industries using electric buses for employee transportation benefit from tax waivers until December 2026. 

“This is part of a larger strategy to phase out polluting diesel and petrol vehicles, replacing them with cleaner electric alternatives. It’s a necessary step to mitigate the rising health costs and environmental degradation caused by traditional vehicles,” Reddy noted.

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Minister Uttam elaborated on the health repercussions of air pollution, citing increasing cases of lung ailments, cardiovascular diseases, and other conditions caused by prolonged exposure to toxic air. “Pollution is no longer just an environmental concern; it is a public health emergency. Our health infrastructure is already stretched, and the economic burden of treating pollution-related illnesses is skyrocketing,” he stated. He also linked the issue to economic productivity, pointing out that poor air quality discourages tourism, inflates energy costs for air purification, and undermines the quality of life. “A cleaner Telangana will not only improve living conditions but also create a positive image for investments, businesses, and tourism,” he added.

Uttam Kumar Reddy called for collective efforts from public and private stakeholders to accelerate the transition to green mobility. He urged industries to innovate and produce affordable, high-quality EVs to cater to a broader demographic while maintaining global standards. “This is a fight for the health and well-being of our people and the future of our cities. Telangana will remain at the forefront of promoting sustainable, green mobility and ensuring clean air for all,” he affirmed. 

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In his speech, Lt R Balakrishnan, CEO of Rap Eco Motors, praised the Telangana government for creating a conducive environment for innovation and green mobility. He said that the ‘E-Raja’ L5 electric three-wheeler was available as both passenger autos and pick-up vans, which had obtained certification from the National Automotive Test Tracks (NATRAX). He emphasized that Rap Eco Motors is focused on continuous innovation and customization to meet diverse customer needs, positioning itself as a key contributor to India’s green mobility agenda. (Maxim News)

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