In a further bid to reduce the pollution in the chocked National Capital, the Supreme Court has banned the use of Petroleum Coke in and around the city. Petroleum coke is a dirtier version of coal and is more serious pollutant agent than the latter. The court has also banned the sale and use of furnace oil, which is another dirty by-product of the oil refineries. The court has ordered the Delhi State Government to take necessary steps to implement strict emission norms by the end of December.

The Environmental Protection Authority (EPCA), which was set up by the Delhi state government to study the levels of pollutions in the state, has recommended earlier in April a ban on the sale and use of pollutants such as charcoal and furnace oil. These pollutants have high levels of Sulphur and are said to be very dangerous to the mankind. An International organization which studied the top polluted cities in the world has revealed that India has become the world’s biggest consumer of Petroleum coke. It mainly consists of carbon and gives out 11% more greenhouse gases and much more sulphur dioxide compared to normal coal. It leads to lung diseases and gives out the acid rain.

According to the Lancet Commission, India tops globally in the death due to pollution and Health issues. The ban on the use and sale of Pet Coke will be enforced from November 1. Pet coke is also a heavy pollutant with lot of sulphur in it. These fuels are being used in cement factories, dyeing units, paper mills, brick kilns and ceramic businesses. The present ban would affect small and medium scale industries.