Reassessment of scheme after January 15: Kejriwal
The Delhi government is likely to enforce the odd-even restrictions only during periods of spike in air pollution, chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, enthused by the “overwhelming” response of the people
The Delhi government is likely to enforce the odd-even restrictions only during periods of spike in air pollution, chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, enthused by the “overwhelming” response of the people on the first day of the initiative, said in an interview.
The chief minister on Friday also accepted that it is impossible to implement the odd-even formula permanently in the national capital to curb pollution.
In an interview to a television channel, Mr Kejriwal clarified that the odd-even formula in Delhi is not a permanent measure and will end on January 15, 2016. “After that we will reassess the situation and the future course of action will be taken based on our reassessment meeting,” he said.
“Practically it is not possible to implement the odd-even scheme permanently. Usually such measures are required when the pollution level is higher and we will continue to implement such scheme whenever it needed for the betterment of Delhi,” he added.
When asked whether he was nervous in the morning over the odd-even scheme drive, Mr Kejriwal said, “Yes, I was nervous in the morning on how people will react to this. But I am happy to see the overwhelming response from the people. The scheme has been successful so far. People in Delhi accepted the scheme whole-heartedly.”
Since the odd-even formula came into picture, several questions have been raised about the feasibility of the rule, to make it a success the Delhi police and citizens have been asked to pitch in. The CM also thanked the traffic police for their work to kick start the scheme. “I would like to thank the people, the Delhi traffic police and the media who came forward to make Delhi pollution free. As per report, there are very less even-numbered cars on the roads,” he added.
He accused the Centre of trying to sabotage the scheme of road-rationing on the eve of its implementation by instigating the strike by bureaucrats.
“This will go on till January 15. Then we will stop it and reassess. Nowhere in the world is the scheme enforced permanently. It is practically not possible. Whenever pollution levels spike this is used as a weapon,” Mr Kejriwal said.