Delhi rolls out odd-even policy to fight pollution

Better late than never. Delhi Friday finally woke up to cut down the smog in the world's most polluted city by rolling out an odd-even vehicle policy.

All the ministers of Delhi, including Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, carpooled to their offices on the first day of the New Year when only odd-numbered cars are allowed on the roads.

Kejriwal, who owns an odd-numbered car, went to his office from home by carpooling with two of his ministers -- Transport Minister Gopal Rai and Health Minister Satyendar Jain.

Though two-wheelers, ambulances, police vans and emergency cars are exempted from the rule, the Delhi government is running 3,000 extra buses and the Delhi metro is operating its full capacity.

Residents of Delhi, too, chipped in with their bit for the environment by adhering to the policy, which is part of a 15-day plan to allow odd and even-numbered private vehicles on alternate days.

The Delhi chief minister, who masterminded the plan after the High Court described the city as a "gas chamber," could not control his emotions.

"I am truly overwhelmed by the response. People have achieved the impossible. I am sure Delhi will show the way," Kejriwal told the media, thanking the citizens for supporting the noble cause.

However, a few offenders were the only odd people out on the roads. Traffic police were quick to fine them a steep 2,000 rupees (40 U.S. dollars).

Among such offenders was a lawmaker of India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Satyapal Singh, who was caught by cops and fined before being let off with a warning.

Delhi Police chief B.S. Bassi has appealed to people to follow the odd-even rule. "I request people to cooperate with us for the next 15 days."

People of Delhi have welcomed the unique initiative, which has already been a success in many European cities, including Paris.

"Curbing pollution in Delhi is the need of the hour. The old and children are suffering from respiratory diseases due to pollution. It's a welcome step," said local resident Ravi Puri.

"Not only the new rule helps in bringing down pollution, it will also prevent traffic congestion in the city," said 60-year-old Pramita Sharma, another resident.

But whether the odd-even rule becomes a success or not will be next week when all government and private offices open. If it becomes a hit, then Delhi may go forward by implementing it permanently.

As the world watches Delhi's moves, time will only spell out if the unique initiative paves the way for other Indian cities to adopt similar measures to curb pollution.