Odd-even scheme called off after NGT removes exemptions

Green panel says it wants women-only vehicles, two-wheelers included in ban; Delhi government cites safety issues

The Delhi government on Saturday called off the odd-even scheme, which was to be implemented from Monday, after the National Green Tribunal (NGT) ordered the withdrawal of exemptions under it, Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot said.

Gahlot said the government’s decision came in view of the directive by the NGT, which ordered the withdrawal of all exemptions on two-wheeler riders and woman-only vehicles.

He said the government was not ready “to compromise with the safety of women”.

“We respect the NGT’s decision. However, two conditions of NGT that two-wheelers and women cannot be exempted make it difficult to implement the scheme,