The Government of Uttar Pradesh recently announced a pioneering initiative aiming to make Mathura-Vrindavan a net zero carbon emission tourist spot by 2041. If achieved, this will be a first in India, setting a precedent for other regions and contributing towards the country’s emission reduction commitment.
Key Announcements and Plan Details
With an aim to achieve the target, the government has decided to ban all tourist vehicles from the entire Braj region, including prominent pilgrimage sites such as Vrindavan and Krishna Janmabhoomi. Going forward, only electric vehicles meant for public transport will be permitted in the region. To enhance the natural resources, all 252 water bodies and 24 forests in the area are set for revival.
The plan is segmented into four clusters, each encompassing two of the eight significant cities. The objective is to create compact circuits, labelled ‘Parikrama Paths’, which can be covered on foot or via electric vehicles. Electric mini-buses will be provided for travelling from one destination to another.
Cultural Significance of Mathura-Vrindavan
Mathura, located on the banks of the Yamuna River, is revered as the abode of Lord Krishna and holds immense religious significance for Hindus. Not only does it have one of the oldest historical records, but it also features in the epic Ramayana.
In the historical context, Mathura served as one of the capitals of Kushan King Kanishka circa 130 AD. The region houses several prestigious temples including Bankey Bihari Temple, Govind Dev Temple, Rangaji Temple, Dwarikadhish Temple, and the ISKCON Temple.
Understanding Net Zero Carbon Emission
Net zero carbon emission, also known as carbon neutrality, aims not to entirely eliminate emissions but achieves a balance where emissions produced are counteracted by the absorption and removal of greenhouse gases from the atmosphere. This balance can be achieved by augmenting carbon sinks such as forests, which increase the absorption of emissions.
Moreover, to remove gases from the atmosphere, futuristic technologies like carbon capture and storage are employed. Over 70 countries have undertaken the commitment to become Net Zero by the mid-century, i.e., by 2050. At the Conference of Parties-26 (COP) summit, India pledged to cut its emissions to net zero by 2070.
Clarification on the Term ‘Intended Nationally Determined Contributions’
The term ‘Intended Nationally Determined Contributions’ was spotlighted in the context of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). It refers to the pledges made under the Paris Agreement by signatory countries to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. These contributions are aimed at achieving the long-term goal of limiting the global average temperature increase to well below 2 degrees Celsius and striving to limit it to 1.5 degrees Celsius. Furthermore, the aim is to achieve net zero emissions in the latter half of the current century.
India’s Commitment at COP 26
At the 26th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the UNFCCC, India made a series of commitments. The commitments include reducing its total projected carbon emissions by one billion tonnes by 2030, achieving non-fossil energy capacity of 500 GW by 2030, and meeting 50% of total energy requirements with renewable energy by 2030. Most significantly, India committed to reaching net-zero emissions by 2070, setting a clear deadline for the first time.
