The first snowfall of the season has led to a surge in tourists, increasing traffic in Gangtok
To manage traffic, the Sikkim government will enforce an odd-even vehicle rule starting November 5, 2024.
Vehicles with registration numbers ending in odd digits (1, 3, 5, 7, 9) can operate on odd dates, while those ending in even digits (0, 2, 4, 6, 8) can operate on even dates.
The rule will be applicable within Gangtok’s municipal limits, especially along the National Highway from Mayfair Fatak to GICI, Zero Point.
The odd-even system will be enforced during peak hours, from 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM and 3:30 PM to 6:00 PM.
Travel will be unrestricted between 12:00 PM and 3:30 PM, allowing flexibility during midday hours.
Key routes like the Indira Bye-Pass and Northern Bye-Pass, as well as emergency vehicles, are exempt from the regulation.
The odd-even rule will not be enforced on 2nd and 4th Saturdays, Sundays, and government-approved holidays.
Violators will face penalties under Section 177 and subsection (1) of Section 179 of the Motor Vehicle Act, 1988.
The government will monitor the rule’s impact and make adjustments as needed to ensure smooth traffic flow during peak tourist season.