Odd-even scheme evokes mixed reaction from netizens

Twitterati are divided over implementation of the odd-even scheme in the national capital on Monday by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government to tackle air pollution after Diwali.

"Dy CM @msisodia cycled today to work to Delhi Secretariat, ITO, from his residence near the Supreme Court, with a message to Delhi - Please follow #OddEven, for yourself, not because the govt has enforced it," a user wrote.

"Burning of straw in Punjab and Haryana has increased pollution in Delhi, due to which Delhi @ArvindKejriwal government has implemented #OddEven," another user noted.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal also took to the Twitter to urge people to follow the new rule. "Hello Delhi! Odd Even is starting from today to reduce pollution. Do follow Odd Even for your health, your children's health and your family's breath. Share car, this will increase friendship, build relationships, save petrol and reduce pollution. Delhi will show it again," he tweeted.

"Meanwhile, Delhi CM to combat Delhi Pollution, Odd Days: Don't burst Crackers, Even Days: Burst Crackers in AAP rallies, Hypocrisy thy name is Arvind Kejriwal! #OddEven #OddEvenDobara," wrote another user.

The scheme will remain in force till November 15 and will be applicable from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Violation will attract a penalty of Rs 4,000, which is double the amount charged in the earlier editions of the scheme.

Terming the scheme as a "political gimmick", Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Vijay Goel said he would violate it.

"Vehicles contribute to 28 per cent of pollution in Delhi, in which cars contribute only 3 per cent. This comes to cars contributing 0.84 per cent to total Delhi pollution, which means this #OddEven is leaving 99.58 per cent causative agents of Delhi pollution untouched. #OddEvenNatak," Goel tweeted.

( With inputs from IANS )