Odd-even Phase 2: About 50% rise in vehicles on road, says study
The idea of reducing congestion in the national capital with the help of the odd-even road rationing scheme has failed to deliver in its second phase, a study shows.
The idea of reducing congestion in the national capital with the help of the odd-even road rationing scheme has failed to deliver in its second phase, a study shows.
The study conducted by School of Planning and Architecture (SPA) shows that the share of private vehicles in the city has risen during phase 2, which started on April 15.
During the second round, there was an increase of almost 50% in the share of private cars plying on the road compared to the first round — from January 1 to 15.
Around Indraprastha Metro station and Lodhi Road, the percentage increase in private vehicles stood at 36% and 41% respectively, while in Maharani Bagh and Gurgaon Expressway, the increase was 42% and 48%, respectively.
The study was carried out in eight traffic heavy locations — Punjabi Bagh, Anand Vihar, Indraprastha, Ring Road (near Bhikaji Cama Place), Maharani Bagh, Mandir Marg, Gurgaon Expressway and Lodhi Road.
Traffic flow in these areas was videographed between 8.30am and 9.30am.
“The difference between odd-even and non odd-even day traffic has gone down, resulting in reduced benefits in travel time and congestion,” said Dr Sewa Ram, associate professor at SPA and research team head.
He also said that the increase in the number of private cars could be attributed to several reasons such as the purchase of new and second-hand cars, conversion to CNG and increase in the taxi share.
The exemption given to two-wheelers has led to a steep rise in their numbers. In locations such as Indraprastha, the percentage increase in two-wheeler traffic almost doubled.
“On both odd and even days the number of vehicles on road has increased as compared to the first time. Though compared to non odd-even days, some locations have shown marginal decline in traffic, there are other locations where traffic flow rose,” he said.
The study also comprised an opinion survey, which showed that despite marginal or no respite in congestion levels, 69% car users gave a thumbs-up to the initiative, and 14% voted against it.
“The study was undertaken not only for academic purpose but also to facilitate better implementation of the scheme,” said Dr PK Sarkar, head of department (Transport Planning).
