Delhi could see re-implementation of odd-even rule; could be applied if pollution level stays in emergency category for 48 hours
Delhi is likely to see re-implementation of controversial odd-even rule. The Delhi government is considering the re-implementation of this strategy to curb pollution level in the national capital region. Delhi transport minister Kailash Gahlot said the government is could bring back the rule to restrict the number of cars in the city and he also asked the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) and senior officials of the ministry to be prepared.
The exact time frame of re-implementation of this rule is not disclosed. But, the government clears that if air pollution level stays in emergency category for 48 hours, the rule will be applied. The odd-even has been a very controversial rule in Delhi and NCR, since its first implementation in 2016 after Delhi High Court directed the central government and Delhi government to work out on comprehensive action plans to keep the alarmingly high pollution ate in Delhi and NCR in check.
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The rule was applied in the city in two phases. The first phase was on between 1st January and 15th January last year, while the second phase was on between 15th April and 30th April. While some criticized the rule, some supported it. No matter what, it certainly helped in bringing down the notorious air pollution level in Delhi significantly. The rule also eased the traffic condition in national capital during peak hours.
Besides considering the re-implementation of odd-even rule in the city, Delhi government is also mulling the strategy of banning old polluting commercial vehicles. As the government says, banning the 12 year or older vehicles could be a viable solution to curb the pollution level in national capital.
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Delhi sits among the top most cities with alarmingly high air pollution level in the world. But, the pollutants from private cars are not the only reason behind this pollution. The two-wheelers, commercial vehicles, industries around the city and burning of crops are also contributors in the poor air quality of national capital.