Bengaluru: In a bid to curb the air pollution and rising traffic congestion in the city, the Karnataka government is eying at replicating the New Delhi’s odd-even formula provided it is a success in the national capital, said Ramalinga Reddy, Home Minister, here on Saturday.
While talking to reporter, the home minister said he was of the opinion that addressing the traffic problem, which was Bengaluru’s major concern, and to avert a Delhi-like situation in terms of air pollution was need of the hour and odd-even vehicle rationing scheme would help to an extent.
“As the New Delhi is set to implement the odd-even vehicle rationing scheme, let's wait for its result. If it turns out to be effective, I will hold a discussion with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Transport Minister over the implementation of the same in Bengaluru,” Mr Reddy said.
The AAP-led Delhi government had introduced the odd-even scheme in January and April this year. In this scheme, odd numbered cars are allowed to ply on odd dates and even numbered cars on even dates. However, two-wheelers were excluded.
Maintaining that the scheme alone would not address the problem, Mr Reddy was of the opinion that it could reduce the problem.
"The number of vehicles in Bengaluru was 54 lakhs in 2013, which now is 68 lakhs. Pollution cannot be tackled unless the number of vehicles is reduced, which is practically not possible. In this case, the odd-even scheme may not be that effective, but will help reduce the number of vehicles on roads,” Mr Reddy added.
Government to act tough against rowdies
Home Minister Ramalinga Reddy said his government would follow zero tolerance towards rowdies and Reddy said that he had instructed the police to extern habitual offenders, if necessary.
"I have given clear directions to the police top brass that rowdy activities should be curtailed at any cost. Those who do not abide to the law and try to create problems will be dealt with strictly.
Those who do not mend their ways even after repeated warnings will be condemned to exile, be it rowdies or any other habitual offender," Mr Reddy warned.
Meanwhile, he also said that drug peddling has to be rooted out. "Generally, the police arrest drug peddlers, book a case against them and forget it.
But I have asked them to catch those who supply narcotic substances. Otherwise, this menace cannot be brought under control."
Further, he added that the police have been asked to step up patrolling and schools and colleges, particularly at women’s colleges.
