Delhi Postpones Implementation of Odd-Even Traffic Policy Pending Supreme Court’s Evaluation of Its Impact

Delhi Postpones Implementation of Odd-Even Traffic Policy Pending Supreme Court's Evaluation of Its Impact

VoM News Desk | November 8, 2023 | 03:59 PM IST | Delhi | Follow on Google News

Delhi Postpones Implementation of Odd-Even Traffic Policy Pending Supreme Court’s Evaluation of Its Impact

Delhi Postpones Implementation of Odd-Even Traffic Policy Pending Supreme Court’s Evaluation of Its Impact

The Delhi government has announced its decision to await the Supreme Court’s assessment and subsequent order before implementing the odd-even car rationing scheme. This statement comes after the apex court expressed skepticism over the scheme’s effectiveness in reducing vehicular pollution. Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai, in a press conference, stated that the outcomes of comprehensive studies by the Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago and Delhi Technical University will be presented before the Supreme Court for evaluation. These studies are pivotal in determining whether the scheme, which restricts cars to operate on alternate days based on their number plate, would be enforced again as a measure to combat pollution.

Mixed Results from Past Implementations

The odd-even scheme, which has been a topic of debate regarding its efficacy in curbing pollution, had mixed results in the past. The Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago, along with Evidence for Policy Design, analyzed the scheme’s impact back in 2016, noting a 14-16% drop in PM2.5 levels during its enforcement in January. However, reintroduction of the scheme in April of the same year did not yield a reduction in pollution levels. These findings are now under the scrutiny of the Supreme Court, which will decide the future course of action.

Comprehensive Measures Against Pollution

Beyond the odd-even scheme, the Delhi government has taken additional steps to tackle pollution. Minister Gopal Rai mentioned the prohibition of app-based taxis as per Supreme Court directives and emphasized the government’s efforts in restarting the Connaught Place smog tower and funding research to identify pollution sources. Additionally, he highlighted the launch of a special drive to monitor and prevent the open burning of waste, with 611 teams established to enforce these regulations across Delhi. This multifaceted approach signifies the government’s commitment to addressing the pollution crisis in the capital.

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