The second phase of the odd-even scheme in Delhi started today. The first phase did not have its intended effect on the traffic and in Delhi Climate. The rising levels of air pollution are same as earlier with slight changes after this experiment. Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal tweeted early in the day asking people to join hands and resolve to make the second phase a success.

As today being Sri Rama Navami, despite the odd-even rule, we see fewer cars on the streets. According to the scheme, four-wheelers with odd-registration plates will run on odd dates and those with even registration plates will run on even dates. The rule is being enforced from April 15-30, 8 am to 8 pm with Sundays being exempted. Women drivers, cars carrying children in school uniform and VIP vehicles have been exempted from the rule as well.

Moreover, the actual impact of the scheme will be known only on Monday, the first working day after the second phase rollout. Many of policemen and civil defense volunteers were deployed in various areas of the city to enforce the restriction. 2,000 traffic personnel, 580 enforcement officials and over 5,000 civil defense volunteers are being deployed for smooth implementation of the scheme.

People who Violate the rule will be fined Rs 2,000 in accordance with relevant section of the Motor Vehicles Act. However, Kejriwal has also stated that his government is seriously considering to enforce the measure for a period of fifteen days every month. Sources said any decision in this regard will be taken after analyzing the impact of the second phase of the odd-even scheme in reducing pollution.

The city Government has formed 120 teams comprising officials of the transport department to punish errant car drivers. The traffic police have identified 200 intersections across the city where their personnel will be deployed in teams. Also, a 20-member Special Task Force has been set up to look into matters reported by the mobile teams.