Odd-Even rule to join battle against pollution from November 13 to November 17

According to the Odd-Even rule, cars with odd last digit in registration numbers ply on one day, followed by cars with even final digit on their number plate.

New Delhi: With pollution levels soaring over the Delhi sky, the Odd-Even traffic management plan will make a comeback in the city from November 13 to November 17. Delhi Transport Minister Kailash Gehlot announced the decision and said that the exemptions will be as were in the last two rounds.

This will be Delhi's third tryst with the Odd-Even plan after it was first implemented for 15 days on January 1 of 2016 and then again on April 15 of the same year. Back then - and even this time, several exemptions were and have been made - especially for two-wheelers, CNG cars and women drivers driving alone or with children and/or children. (Full list of exemptions here)

Gehlot also added that IGL stickers for CNG cars will be available from Friday at 22 CNG stations across Delhi and that additional DTC buses will be put on road from Monday.

While the AAP government has repeatedly claimed that it has managed to bring down pollutants in the air, environment experts say a number of factors decide the level of contaminants in the air. Most, however, agree that the traffic management plan eases road congestion and its implementation does more harm than good.

Delhi has one of the highest motor vehicles' density in the country and entry of heavy vehicles from other states leads to not just congested roads but higher pollution levels. While the entry of trucks, barring those carrying essential commodities, was banned on Wednesday, the current situation is being primarily blamed on stubble burning in adjoining states and prevailing weather conditions. Odd-Even road management though may still manage to create some level of positive impact, say environmental experts.