Car Rationing Is Not the Quick Smog Fix Delhi Needs

By December, Delhi’s smog becomes so thick at certain points in the day that you can barely see your own hand. Delhiites know by now that the toxic air in the city with the world’s most polluted air might cause flight delays, school closings, and cancelled outdoor events. The more insidious repercussions are the chronic health problems.

“We’re living in a gas chamber,” Judges in the Delhi High Court declared last week, as they urged local and central to devise a solution to curb the dangerously high levels of air pollution. The Delhi government responded quickly, and announced restrictions on cars in the city. Starting January 1, residents with odd- and even-numbered license plates will be allowed to drive on alternate days. These rules will be applicable from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m every day, except Sunday.