By Ritam Halder
Various studies on the first two implementations of the odd-even road rationing policy implemented in 2016 had evoked mixed reactions. While studies by Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) and University of CHicago had said that pollution levels had gone down, The Energy and Resources Institute (Teri), Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and other agencies had stated that there was negligible impact.
The Arvind Kejriwal-led Delhi government had dubbed the first odd-even exercise, conducted in January 2016, a success. Although the government had claimed that pollution levels went down and traffic congestion eased, experts were sceptical about its impact without conclusive evidence. While DPCC claimed air pollution reduced significantly in the core of the city compared with bordering areas, SAFA said improvement was marginal.