Several local welfare associations in Delhi on Monday criticized the state government’s decision to reintroduce the odd-even rule, while many others called for a complete lockdown to combat rising air pollution.
A network of 2,500 RWAs, URJA, termed the measure a “political gimmick” and said it has no impact on improving pollution levels.
“The odd-even scheme is a political ploy by the state government which has failed to introduce workable solutions to this serious pollution problem in Delhi. We are not happy with this decision,” said Atul Goel, president of the United Residents Joint Action (URJA). ), said.
Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai on Monday announced that the odd-even car rationing scheme will be enforced in the city from November 13 to 20 after Diwali to control air pollution.
After November 20, a decision will be made about the extension of the odd-even scheme.
The North Delhi RWA expressed displeasure over the Delhi government’s initiatives to tackle the worsening air pollution situation.
“The Delhi government has halted several activities under GRAP-IV, which will directly impact thousands of employees who were working at the restricted sites. It will also affect school children as schools are closed due to increase in pollution,” Ashok Bhasin, chairman of a North Delhi RWA, said.
However, an RWA in Defense Colony said the state government should impose a ‘stricter measure’ instead and called for a two-day lockdown to deal with the deteriorating air quality condition in Delhi.
With the festivities around the corner, the state government must take urgent action to ensure that air quality does not deteriorate further.
“The odd-even rule should have been introduced a week ago. The government does not have enough manpower to effectively implement this rule. Therefore, it must take a strict measure and declare a two-day complete lockdown to prevent the situation from developing further. out of control,” said Ranjit Singh, president of Defense Colony RWA.
Meanwhile, face-to-face classes in all schools, except for students of classes X and XII preparing for board exams, have been suspended by the state government.
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