BMC wants implementation of 'odd-even' scheme in Mumbai

Perhaps taking a cue from Delhi, the civic body of Mumbai wants implementation of 'odd-even' road-rationing scheme in the financial capital too.
A report prepared by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation on Comprehensive Mobility Plan (CMP) has suggested the 'odd-even' formula be implemented in the metropolis to keep pollution in check and curb vehicular traffic.
The report, prepared by BMC's Road Department, will be presented to civic chief Ajoy Mehta, who will then forward it to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis for his consideration.
"One of the suggestions included in the report is to implement odd-even formula in Mumbai to curb rising air pollution and vehicular traffic. It is up to the Government to decide whether to implement the suggestion or not," Additional Municipal Commissioner Pallavi Darade told PTI.

Other suggestions in the report include restrictions on registration of new private vehicles, car pooling and introduction of low emission norms.
The Bombay High Court, in January, issued notices to the State Government and BMC and had sought response to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking introduction of the odd-even scheme for private cars in Mumbai on lines of the pattern adopted in Delhi.

Under the scheme in the national capital, cars with odd and even-numbered license plates ply on alternate days.
Fadnavis had earlier said there was no need for the scheme in Mumbai.
"The BMC had constituted an agency to seek recommendations from various stakeholders like MMRDA, traffic police, for the mobility plan. We have received them and now are in the process of forwarding them to the Government," Sanjay Darade, Chief Engineer, Road Department, said.

The report suggests undertaking road safety initiatives to curb road accidents and increased enforcement of laws for cases of drink driving.
Among other recommendations, the report said roads in the metropolis should be strengthened and widened, exclusive bus lanes be built, railway networks be expanded and footpaths should be improved.