Odd-even plan kicks off in Delhi on New Year’s Day, Kejriwal carpools with ministers.

Odd-even rule: The measure to control vehicular pollution has stared being enforced in Delhi by the AAP government.

Civil guard monitoring the Odd-Even plan at Select Citywalk Mall.

The much-debated and discussed odd-even rule by the Delhi government has kicked in. Under the rule, private cars with odd-numbered registration plates will be allowed to ply on odd dates and those with even-numbered registration plates will run on even dates. The measure is being enforced to control vehicular pollution that contributes to heavy smog and bad air quality in the national capital. 

VIPs such as the President, Prime Minister, Chief Justice, CMs of other states and Union Minsters have been exempted from the rule. But Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal has said that he will carpool along with his ministers on these days. The rule is being enforced on a trial basis from January 1 to January 15 with Sundays being exempted. Two-wheelers and cars driven by women are also ruled out. 

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal says the response has been overall encouraging. “Delhiites! U give me hope that U are capable of achieving big challenges,” he writes in a tweet. “Am pooling my car n going to office with 2 ministers, my PS and my Joint Secy,” he adds.

Delhi minister Satyendra Jain has meanwhile said that he is confident people of the city will ensure the success of the scheme.

The opposition BJP has meanwhile stuck to its stand that the scheme is doomed to fail.

Delhi Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra has left for the Delhi secretariat on a motorcycle. Remember, two-wheelers are exempt.