NGT gives nod to odd-even scheme

After criticising the odd-even scheme for being ineffective, National Green Tribunal(NGT) on Saturday gave nod to its implementation from November 13 to November 17. The Tribunal also criticised the Delhi government for not implementing the scheme when the air quality was worse.

NGT asked AAP dispensation if odd-even car rationing scheme is being implemented with consent of both Lieutenant Governor and Delhi government and if it is being implemented at the whim and thought of a particular officer or the Delhi government as a whole.

It also questioned the basis of granting exemptions under the scheme if the objective is to improve ambient air quality and said that this time, no exemption would be given to anyone, including women and two-wheeler riders in odd-even scheme. But CNG vehicles, emergency services such as ambulance and fire are exempted from odd-even scheme.

NGT also asked the Delhi government to Implement odd-even scheme when PM10 level is above 500 micrograms per cubic metre and PM2.5 above 300 µg/m3.

In stern words NGT said measures like enhanced parking fees, as suggested by EPCA, to decrease pollution are absurd and issued notices to Nationla Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and NBCC asking why exemplary cost should not be imposed on them for violation of its order on construction.

With inputs from PTI