Mumbai: The Maharashtra government, in its budget 2022-22-23, has focused on E-vehicle policies. It aims to increase the number of electric vehicles by 10% in new vehicle registrations and 25% in public transport in major cities. The state also plans to build 5,000 charging stations by 2025. In addition, the state will provide capital financial assistance for 3000 environmentally friendly buses and modernisation of 103 bus stands to Maharashtra State Transport Corporation.
The state has also proposed other energy-efficient projects, such as the establishment of 577 megawatts of solar power projects in Yavatmal and Chandrapur. Four substations in Mumbai with a 400 kilowatt capacity and one highly pressured transmission facility were proposed at a cost of 11,530 crore.
The state also proposed reducing the VAT on natural gas (CNG), from 13.5% to 3.3% in order to promote clean energy. Natural gas is mainly used for piped gas in homes and as fuel in public transport vehicles, such as taxis, cabs, or auto rickshaws.
Passengers who travel on waterways enjoy a tax break. From January 1, 2022, the Maharashtra Maritime Board has waived tax imposed on passengers traveling by waterways. The state has also proposed several initiatives to increase citizens’ interactions with their environment as part of cultural tourism. Experts have praised it as an initiative that will raise awareness about conservation and preservation. Balasaheb Thackeray-Gorewada International Zoological Park proposes an African safari. It is estimated that it will cost approximately $2,000 100 crores. A leopard safari is offered in a forest area of 90 hectares within the Pune forest department. It is expected to cost around $1,500 60 crore. A tiger safari in a forest area of 171 ha adjacent to Chandrapur will be held. In the same area, a wildlife rescue centre will be established.
Stalin D, a representative of NGO Vanashakti, stated that this is a good move. Connecting citizens through sustainable and responsible tourism is a good thing. It helps them feel connected to the environment they are trying protect. With reasonable controls, more people can connect with wildlife and help preserve ecological areas. This is a positive approach to conservation that has proven unsuccessful in the old school.
While 253 crore has been allotted for the environment. 150 crore have been allocated to conservation of 23 rivers in the State. To raise awareness about climate change and the environment, a school curriculum will be developed for students from classes I to VIII.