Air pollution levels in Delhi drop on day 2 of odd-even formula, claims AAP; Deputy CM Sisodia calls it a major success

New Delhi: The odd-even road rationing scheme by the Delhi government proved to be a major success on Saturday as the Aam Aadmi Party claimed there was a drop in air pollution levels recorded in some parts of Delhi as compared to 2015.

Amid mixed reactions over Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's odd-even formula to contain pollution level in the national capital, the government is now gearing up for Monday (only even cars allowed) - which is considered as a big test - because offices will reopen after a long weekend.

On Saturday, the Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia was seen going to his office in a bicycle. Sisodia, whose car bears an odd registration number, cycled to the All India Radio office at 8.30 am from his residence and then pedalled down to Delhi Secretariat after taking part in a radio show there.

"My aim is that if this odd even formula has been implemented in Delhi for 15 days, it must be followed. And that people look for alternatives to travel to work and other places. I for example have an odd numbered car and so on an even day I will use my cycle," he said.

"Starting from car free days to road rationing scheme, we can see that people are coming forward to help Delhi in fighting against the pollution issue. They now feel responsible. There will be challenges while implementing the rule and now it is up to the people of Delhi to show their commitment towards this cause," the Deputy CM said while adding that "the first day's response was great and I am sure that all through the 15 days, we will receive such positive response from Delhi."

The other AAP ministers too availed public transport and motorcycle to reach to their respective offices.

Across the city, including at major arteries in Delhi, traffic police were seen stopping violators. There was a marginal jump in the number of prosecutions by Saturday evening.

"On Saturday, we have challaned 229 persons till 8 pm On Friday, 138 were challaned for violation of the odd-even scheme," Special Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Muktesh Chander had said.