Odd-even scheme: Delhi Minister leads the way, rides bike to work

As the odd-even scheme for cars to curb vehicular pollution in the national capital came into effect this morning, Delhi Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra on Friday said the formula is working very successfully and there are less vehicles on roads.

"The odd-even formula seems to be working very well in Delhi. We can see very less vehicles on road and it's a different Delhi altogether," Delhi Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra said who rode a bike to work.

However, there is also criticism to the scheme that it has encouraged people to purchase another vehicle.

"People are buying more vehicles and the pollution level will rise further. Those having odd-numbers are buying even number cars and those having even numbers are buying odd number cars," said Himanshu, a Delhi resident.

For 15 days from today, private vehicles will be allowed only on alternate days in a big step to clean up the world's most polluted capital. Only odd-numbered cars are allowed on the roads today.

Those found violating the rule will be fined Rs. 2,000.

Initially, the scheme will be on trial basis for 15 days.

The VIPs, women drivers, CNG-certified vehicles, two-wheelers and those carrying the differently-abled are among the 25 categories which are exempted from the scheme. However, the exemption will not apply to Delhi Chief Minister and his Cabinet colleagues as they have decided to abide by the rule.