SC questions effectiveness of Odd-Even scheme as Delhi becomes Most polluted city of the world

NEW DELHI: As the 10-day vehicle rationing scheme ‘Odd-Even’ comes to an end in the national capital, the Supreme Court has questioned its effectiveness. Calling the scheme ‘half-baked’, the apex court pointed out that despite the implementation of the scheme the pollution levels continue to rise. “Even Delhi government’s affidavit says we have not conducted such study on the odd-even. It’s a halfway solution, either it’s full odd-even or no odd-even, there has to be no exemption. We don’t know whether it’s really working or not,” SC said. With this, the Supreme court has apprised Delhi government to check the effect of the scheme on air pollution.

Delhi government is mulling over the extension of the scheme. Arvind Kejriwal, Chief Minister, Delhi said,” We are concerned about pollution. I congratulate the people of Delhi for their voluntary participation. As per forecasts, air quality is likely to improve in the next two days. We are keeping a close watch. We will see if the reinforcement of the scheme is necessary and make a final call on November 18.”

The severe air quality has earned Delhi the title of ‘The Most Polluted City of the World’, as per AirVisual’s recent data. According to the data, the air quality of Delhi was in ‘Hazardous’ range for 9 consecutive days between 28^th October and 5^th November, resulting in the biggest spike in air toxicity for any city in recorded history. 3 of the 10 spots in the most polluted cities of the world list is occupied by Indian cities.

Given the severity of the issue, the Supreme Court has also directed the Centre to prepare a plan to install air purifying towers in the city.