Delhi odd-even rule 2023: Dates, timings and who is exempt?

Delhi’s AQI index has reached ‘severe’ level even before Diwali celebrations have taken place. Expecting things to get even worse, the Delhi government has now decided to implement the ‘odd-even’ scheme in a bid to curb rising pollution. Just like before, the scheme prescribes that vehicles with registration ending with an odd number will be allowed on odd dates, and vehicles with even ending numbers will be allowed to travel on even numbered dates.Here are the updated dates, timings and exemptions for the odd-even scheme in Delhi for 2023.

Date and timings:
The Delhi government will implement the odd-even scheme for a week between November 13 to 20. The scheme can also be extended if Delhi’s AQI does not show any sign of improvement during the first duration. Odd or even numbered vehicles according to the date, will be allowed to move in the city between 8 am to 8 pm. Beyond these time limits, normal movement will be allowed. To be clear, vehicles with registration numbers ending with 1,3,5,7 and 9 will be allowed on odd days and vehicle registrations ending with 0,2,4,6 and 8 will be allowed on even days.

Who is exempt?:
While the odd-even rule will be applied on all vehicles, women drivers have been exempted under the scheme. Emergency response vehicles such as ambulances will also be exempt under the rule. However, vehicles bearing registration plates of outside states have not been exempt and need to comply with the mandate.
With a further increase in pollution anticipated post Diwali, it is uncertain if the odd-even rule will be restricted to a one week duration. The government will take a decision on whether the duration will be extended or not around November 20.