One survey backs regular odd-even; Vijay Goel calls it flop

As the second phase of the AAP government’s odd-even car rationing scheme ends on Saturday, a survey revealed on Friday that majority of Delhi residents favour permanent implementation of the scheme.

The PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s survey of more than 1,000 people in the Delhi-NCR sought to find out if the odd-even formula was a hit or a failure. “Majority of respondents want the rule to be implemented on a permanent basis as this parameter has scored 6.2 out of 10,” the industry lobby group said. The survey highlighted that the car rationing scheme had got a satisfactory response from the respondents, scoring 5.4 out of 10 points. It said that fewer vehicles on the roads had reduced travel time for commuters, but not to the desired extent (score 5.7 out of 10).

“Although some parts of Delhi have seen reduction in traffic, yet some areas suffer from traffic congestion. Some parts of Delhi need proper regulation of traffic and better road networks,” said PHD Chamber secretary-general Saurabh Sanyal. The survey also highlighted that most commuters will not buy an additional car even if the odd-even rule is implemented permanently.

The public transport system scored a low 4.3 during the current odd-even scheme that began on April 15. However, majority of people reported that their overall travelling experience during the odd-even Phase II had been easier (score 5.8 out of 10).

“For the success of this rule, the public transport system needs to be strengthened to ensure connectivity to far away areas and availability of means of transport at every point,” Mr Sanyal said. “The office hours should be made flexible so that traffic is distributed evenly,” he added.

The survey said that if the odd-even rule was implemented in letter and spirit, it will certainly bring down pollution levels in the city.

Another survey conducted by Lok Abhiyan, a social organisation headed by BJP Rajya Sabha member Vijay Goel, revealed that 68 per cent respondents have labelled the scheme a failure.

According to Mr Goel, around 4,700 people were surveyed on the Phase II of the scheme. “People’s biggest concern is not that whether this scheme would get a third phase or not, but the fact that because of this scheme the additional 30 per cent cars that Delhiites have bought will add to already congested roads post-April 30,” said Mr Goel.