Odd-Even Gains Lost, Emergency Action Needed: CSE

Civic Defence Volunteers stand on Delhi roads holding placards on Day 4 of the implementation of the odd-even formula in Delhi. (Photo: IANS)

Air pollution has returned to Delhi with a vengeance following the end of Delhi’s odd-even traffic scheme, the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) has said, calling for emergency steps.

The gains of the January 1-15 odd-even scheme have been lost, and pollution levels can worsen further unless the authorities act, it said in a statement.

<p>New analysis by the CSE shows air pollution is back with a vengeance. The first three working days after the completion of the odd-even scheme have seen rapid worsening of air quality – more than 57 percent jump in PM 2.5 levels on the first working day, and has stayed at severe levels.</p>

<b> Centre for Science and Environment </b>

The Delhi government enforced the odd-even scheme to restrict traffic on the roads, with odd-numbered four wheelers allowed to ply on odd dates and even-numbered vehicles on even dates.

<p>This validates the importance of emergency action. The fortnight when the programme was implemented has clearly demonstrated that the peak pollution levels are lower than the normal smog peaks of the season – despite adverse weather conditions.</p>

<b> Anumita Roy Chowdhury, Executive Director, CSE</b>