Photo Courtesy: nenow
Gangtok: The High Court of Sikkim is seeking public input on the state government's odd-even vehicle restriction policy after a Public Interest Litigation challenged its effectiveness. Mahesh Rai, a spokesperson for the Citizen Action Party-Sikkim, filed the petition to highlight the negative impact the traffic regulations have had on daily commuters.
A division bench presided over the case on May 30 and directed all District Collectors to launch a formal consultation process. Officials must issue public notices within three days to gather complaints and suggestions from residents. These findings will be compiled into detailed reports for the court to review.
The court also demanded that the state government explain what infrastructure it has provided to assist citizens during the implementation of these restrictions. The bench specifically requested details regarding existing transport facilities meant to support public mobility. According to the court, these reports will be essential for the next hearing, which is scheduled for June 9.
The odd-even system limits private vehicle usage based on license plate numbers in an effort to manage congestion. While the government maintains the strategy improves traffic flow, it has faced significant local backlash. Regarding the legal process, the court noted that the "reports submitted by district administrations and the state government are expected to play a key role in the court's further consideration of the policy."
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