Odd-Even Scheme: NGT asks Delhi govt why it can't run ladies special buses to solve problem

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has taken the Delhi Government to task over its plea to change the order on the implementation of the Odd-Even Scheme in Delhi. 

NGT asked the Delhi Government why it could not run ladies special buses in the city.

NGT further asked if the administration was doing it for the environment or was there any other motive behind the move. 

“When the report says that two-wheelers cause more pollution then why are they exempted from the scheme and what purpose will it serve?” asked the green body. 

The NGT said when the pollution levels are the same then why the schools have been reopened and what is the motive behind it. 

Over the issue of sprinkling water on the trees, it observed that the pollutants are sticking to the trees which will damage and kill the plants and trees in the city.

It also questioned the city government’s undertaking on the procurement of 4000 buses. 

“Why do you wait for the condition to worsen?” asked the tribunal.

NGT asked Delhi Government, “What constitutes a health emergency according to you? The measures should be applied automatically by the government after dangerous levels of PM 2.5 and PM 10 persist for more than 48 hours. 

“Don't gift infected lungs to children. They have to wear masks to go to school,” said NGT.

The green body lashed out at Delhi Government saying that the areas which the party claims as its voter base are some of the worst affected by pollution.

Delhi Government has withdrawn the application it had submitted to NGT seeking changes in the Odd-Even scheme.