Odd-Even Scheme in Delhi: A Case Study in Urban Governance
Odd-Even Scheme in Delhi: A Case Study in Urban Governance
Traffic Management
By limiting the number of vehicles on the road, the scheme
aimed to ease traffic congestion and promote smoother urban
mobility.
Phase-Wise Rollout
The scheme was first introduced in January 2016, followed by
additional phases in April 2016, November 2017, and November
2019. Each phase incorporated new rules and exemptions.
Operational Logistics
Enforcement was managed through traffic police and
surveillance, while exemptions were granted to women drivers,
two-wheelers, and emergency vehicles.
Role of Stakeholders
The Delhi government, local authorities, judiciary, and public
transport systems played crucial roles in planning and execution.
Impact and Public Reception
Environmental Outcomes
While there were short-term reductions in vehicular
emissions, the overall impact on air quality was mixed due to
other pollution sources.
Infrastructure Limitations
Lack of sufficient public transport and poor last-mile
connectivity affected citizens' ability to comply with the
rules.
Key Takeaways
Innovative ideas require robust infrastructure, legal
backing, and citizen engagement for long-term success.
Phase 1: January 1-15,
01
2016
Key Phases
02 Phase 2: April 15-30, 2016
of
Implementa
Phase 3: November 13-17,
tion
03
2017 (Emergency)
Women
Essential Public
and
Services Transport
Children
Ambulances, police, and Solo women drivers and Buses, taxis, auto-rickshaws,
fire services were excluded those with children below 12 and two-wheelers were
to ensure public safety was were allowed to drive mostly exempt to encourage
not compromised. without restriction. shared transit.
Supporters
Spectrum
From crowded roads to cleaner skies and public transport surges—each image reflects a dimension
of the Odd-Even scheme's outcomes.
Policy Effectiveness
n
possibilities and limitations of urban policy
initiatives. While it succeeded in sparking
dialogue and temporary results, long-term
sustainability requires integrated planning and
consistent engagement.