SC says odd-even not effective to reduce pollution, leaves decision to Delhi govt

The Supreme Court on Friday directed the Delhi government to take a decision on the enactment of the odd-even rule as the apex court decided to step away from doing the same. Justice Kaul also squashed the efficacy of Delhi govt's odd-even scheme, revealing that a report from its amicus curiae Aparajita Singh shows that it is barely effective in combating pollution.

As per the amicus, vehicular pollution contributes 17% to the total pollution level of the city, while odd-even rule has helped bring that 17% down by a mere 13%. The Supreme Court has left the discretion to the Kejriwal-led Delhi govt, which had announced the application of the odd-even scheme from November 13 to November 20 in the capital.




The odd-even rule has been previously implemented by the Delhi government on a few different occasions. The counsel for Delhi government also argued that they have a study that shows odd-even helps decongest roads and improve the traffic condition in the city. "Every little bit counts. [Odd-even rule] makes a difference."

As per the date, vehicles with registration numbers ending with odd or even number will be allowed to move in the city between 8 AM to 8 PM. Beyond these time limits, normal movement will be allowed. For a better understanding, vehicles with registration numbers ending with 1, 3, 5, 7 and 9 will be allowed on odd days and vehicle registrations ending with 0, 2, 4, 6 and 8 will be allowed on even days. Women drivers have been exempted under the odd-even scheme. Emergency response vehicles such as ambulances will also be exempt under the rule.

What do you think about the implementation of odd-even rule considering the high pollution level and poor AQI in Delhi? Let us know in the comments down below.Discover everything about the automotive world at Times of India.