A few days ago, a video surfaced showing a man dismantling devices mounted on poles in London, sparking discussions about the removal of ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone) cameras. Reports claimed that these actions were fueled by frustration towards London Mayor Sadiq Khan’s installation of these cameras, allegedly targeting those unable to afford electric vehicles. Many social media users shared the video with misleading claims, ultimately targeting the mayor. One such account was of Ajay Chauhan (@ajaychauhan41), known for circulating fake and misleading news often.
The Background and Source
The controversy originates from the expansion of London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone, as confirmed by various sources including local motor-based news portals such as Top Gear [archive] and Car Magazine [archive]. The move, examined by certain councils, aimed to enforce stricter emissions regulations for vehicles within the expanded zone, triggering debates about its impact on Londoners. Starting from late August 2023, the ULEZ expansion covered a significant part of Greater London within the M25. Under this new regulation, petrol cars registered before September 2005 and diesel cars registered before September 2015 faced a daily fee of £12.50 if they failed to comply with Euro 4 (petrol) or Euro 6 (diesel) emission standards. The intention behind the expansion was to improve air quality and reduce emissions in the city.
Controversial Reaction and Misinformation
The video of the man removing devices sparked a wave of claims that citizens were taking action against the ULEZ cameras, allegedly due to financial hardships and dissatisfaction with Mayor Sadiq Khan’s policies. However, it’s important to note that these cameras were installed as part of a court-backed initiative to control the Air Quality Index (AQI) and reduce pollution, not solely as a punitive measure.
Contrary to misinformation, the ULEZ cameras were not installed solely based on Mayor Khan’s decision but were backed by legal verdicts. The expansion aimed to target older, more polluting vehicles to improve air quality, not to unfairly burden citizens. Claims that the removal of cameras signifies widespread dissent against the ULEZ expansion need to be critically examined, considering the complex motivations behind such actions. Following comprehensive analysis and meticulous fact-checking, our team has investigated the claim. You can refer to the findings of this inquiry in the Twitter thread embedded below.
In the midst of debates and misconceptions, it’s crucial to base discussions on accurate information. The ULEZ expansion is a carefully considered initiative aimed at enhancing air quality and reducing emissions in London. Earlier, the Delhi government took such steps earlier to control the air quality index in the capital. To know more about it, kindly refer to an article by zeebizz.com [archive]
Claim: Citizens are vehemently opposing ULEZ cameras due to financial hardships and dissatisfaction with Mayor Sadiq Khan who is of Pakistani-origin.
Fact: ULEZ cameras were installed to improve air quality and comply with legal mandates, not solely due to Mayor Khan’s decision, and their removal does not change their purpose and has nothing to do with anyone’s religion.
In our pursuit of accurate and unbiased information, we’ve diligently fact-checked the claims surrounding the incident. Misinformation can sow discord and disrupt communal harmony. Your support matters greatly in our mission to foster an informed and united society. Together, let’s strive to make India and Indians proud, upholding truth and unity. Jai Hind.
