The odd-even vehicle rationing system will be reintroduced in Delhi from November 13 to 20, according to Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai. With the increasing pollution in the national capital due to stubble burning in neighboring states and the upcoming Diwali celebrations, the Air Quality Index (AQI) continues to worsen.
The odd-even scheme will be implemented a day after Diwali, which falls on November 12. During a press conference, Minister Rai expressed concerns that pollution is expected to escalate after the festival. He explained that on odd dates, vehicles with registration numbers ending in 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9 will be allowed to ply, while on even dates, vehicles with registration numbers ending in 0, 2, 4, 6, and 8 will be permitted.
Depending on the pollution levels, the odd-even scheme may be extended. Throughout the designated week, cars will only be allowed on the roads between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. This rule also applies to vehicles from other states. Minister Rai assured that the government is taking measures to facilitate commuters, including an increased number of buses and metros. He stated that over 7,000 buses are operating in Delhi, with 1,000 of them being electric.
There are exceptions to the scheme, including electric vehicles, CNG autos, emergency vehicles, and VVIP vehicles. Women-only cars, two-wheelers, vehicles on emergency duties, and cars carrying people with disabilities are also exempted. Flouting the odd-even rules may result in a fine, which was initially set at Rs 2,000 in 2016 but was raised to Rs 4,000 in 2019. The Delhi Traffic Police is responsible for enforcing the scheme and imposing fines.
In addition to the odd-even scheme, the government has instructed schools to suspend physical classes, except for students in classes 10 and 12, until November 10.
