Here are 10 key points about Snowfall Brings Odd-Even Rule to Gangtok from Nov 5:
- Seasonal Snowfall in Sikkim: The first snowfall of the season has led to a surge in tourists, increasing traffic in Gangtok.
- Implementation of Odd-Even Rule: To manage traffic, the Sikkim government will enforce an odd-even vehicle rule starting November 5, 2024.
- Basis of the Rule: 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.
- Coverage Area: The rule will be applicable within Gangtok’s municipal limits, especially along the National Highway from Mayfair Fatak to GICI, Zero Point.
- Peak Hours Enforcement: 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.
- Unrestricted Hours: Travel will be unrestricted between 12:00 PM and 3:30 PM, allowing flexibility during midday hours.
- Exceptions to the Rule: Key routes like the Indira Bye-Pass and Northern Bye-Pass, as well as emergency vehicles, are exempt from the regulation.
- Rule Not Applicable on Certain Days: The odd-even rule will not be enforced on 2nd and 4th Saturdays, Sundays, and government-approved holidays.
- Penalties for Violations: Violators will face penalties under Section 177 and subsection (1) of Section 179 of the Motor Vehicle Act, 1988.
- Adaptive Traffic Management: The government will monitor the rule’s impact and make adjustments as needed to ensure smooth traffic flow during peak tourist season.
Sikkim has welcomed its first snowfall of the season, leading to a surge in tourist arrivals. With the picturesque landscapes drawing more visitors, the state’s capital, Gangtok, has been witnessing increased traffic. To address this, the Sikkim government will implement an odd-even vehicle rule starting November 5, 2024, to manage congestion effectively.
What is the Odd-Even Rule?
The odd-even rule aims to control the flow of traffic within Gangtok’s bustling streets, especially during peak tourist seasons. This initiative, introduced under Section 115 of the Motor Vehicle Act, 1988, will apply to both private and government vehicles based on the last digit of their registration numbers:
- Vehicles with odd-numbered registrations (1, 3, 5, 7, 9): Can operate on odd dates.
- Vehicles with even-numbered registrations (0, 2, 4, 6, 8): Can operate on even dates.
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Effective Date and Duration
The rule will come into effect from November 5, 2024, and will be enforced for an unspecified period. The authorities have implemented this measure in anticipation of continued tourist arrivals, hoping to make travel smoother for residents and visitors alike.
Areas Covered
The regulation is applicable within Gangtok’s municipal limits, primarily along the National Highway stretch from Mayfair Fatak to GICI, Zero Point. This route is a key passage for residents and tourists, and the odd-even rule aims to streamline traffic along these busy sections.
Peak Hours of Implementation
To reduce congestion during the busiest times, the rule will be enforced:
- Morning: 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM
- Afternoon: 3:30 PM – 6:00 PM
Between 12:00 PM and 3:30 PM, travel will be unrestricted, allowing flexibility for those needing to move during this period. The balance aims to accommodate varying travel needs throughout the day while easing traffic during critical hours.
Exceptions to the Rule
Certain routes and vehicles are exempt from the odd-even system to ensure uninterrupted essential services:
- Exempt Routes: Indira Bye-Pass and Northern Bye-Pass within Gangtok will not be affected by the rule.
- Emergency Vehicles: Ambulances and other emergency services can operate freely, ensuring there is no disruption in critical situations.
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Days When the Rule Does Not Apply
The rule will be relaxed on specific days, providing relief to both residents and tourists:
- 2nd and 4th Saturdays
- Sundays
- Government-approved holidays
This flexibility ensures that travel plans over weekends and special occasions are not hindered, making it easier for tourists to explore the region during these days.
Penalties for Violations
To ensure compliance, the Sikkim government has outlined penalties for those violating the rule. Offenders will face fines under Section 177 and subsection (1) of Section 179 of the Motor Vehicle Act, 1988. Strict monitoring by law enforcement will ensure that only eligible vehicles are on the roads during the specified times, highlighting the government’s commitment to improving traffic conditions.
Adaptive Approach to Traffic Management
The Sikkim government will monitor the effectiveness of the odd-even system and adjust it as needed. This adaptive approach aims to make travel within Gangtok smoother, especially during the peak tourist season when the city sees a higher influx of visitors. By implementing these measures, authorities hope to provide a seamless experience for residents and tourists, ensuring that the city remains accessible despite increased traffic.
As Sikkim enjoys its first snowfall, the government is preparing to manage the influx of tourists, and the odd-even rule is a step towards a more organized, efficient traffic system.
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