Low Emission Zone
Full Form of LEZ
What is LEZ?
A Low Emission Zone (LEZ) is a geographically defined area where access by certain polluting vehicles is restricted or deterred, typically through fees or outright bans, to improve urban air quality. In the Indian context, LEZs have been piloted or proposed in major metropolitan cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, primarily targeting heavy diesel trucks, older commercial vehicles, and two-stroke engines. Authorities implement LEZs as part of broader clean air action plans (e.g., the National Clean Air Programme) and under provisions of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981. The concept is gaining traction due to deteriorating air quality indices in Indian cities, especially during winter months when vehicular emissions compound with agricultural stubble burning. LEZs are enforced through automated number plate recognition cameras and traffic police checkpoints, with penalty systems for violators. For competitive exams like UPSC, State PCS, or environmental journalism, questions may appear on the comparative effectiveness of LEZs versus odd-even schemes or electric vehicle mandates. While not yet widespread across India, LEZ implementation is a recurring topic in urban governance and environmental sustainability debates, reflecting global trends from London and Berlin. The zones are usually indicated by signage and mapped via government pollution control portals.
LEZ का फुल फॉर्म
निम्न उत्सर्जन क्षेत्र
Example
The Delhi government announced a new LEZ around the ITO intersection to restrict pre-BS-IV diesel trucks from entering during peak hours.