Delhi may reintroduce odd-even vehicle rule to combat air pollution
The Delhi government is considering the reimplementation of the odd-even vehicle rationing scheme, as part of its 'Winter Action Plan' to combat air pollution. This strategy will be enforced if necessary, during the upcoming Diwali and winter season. The plan aims to reduce the number of vehicles on city roads each day, by allowing only those with an odd or even last digit on their registration plate to operate on specific days.
Factors contributing to Delhi's winter pollution
Several factors contribute to the deterioration of air quality in Delhi during the winter months. These include stubble waste burning in neighboring states, firecrackers, and vehicular emissions. The 'Winter Action Plan' aims to address all these issues, as stated by Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai. The plan will be officially unveiled on September 27.
Drones to monitor pollution hotspots
As part of the 'Winter Action Plan,' the Delhi government will use drones to monitor 13 of the most polluted hotspots in Delhi. The government statement revealed, "The Winter Action Plan targets pollution hotspots, vehicle and dust pollution, industrial emissions and introduces innovative emergency measures such as the odd-even vehicle scheme and artificial rain to combat severe pollution spells."
Previous implementations of odd-even scheme
The odd-even vehicle rationing scheme has been implemented in several global cities with mixed results. Delhi has previously experimented with this strategy in 2016, 2017, and 2019. However, last year the Delhi government reconsidered its decision to implement the scheme after the Supreme Court questioned its effectiveness in reducing pollution levels. Critics argue that the scheme's numerous exceptions for two-wheelers, public transport options, and CNG vehicles limit its effectiveness.
