Heads up, citizens of the national capital and its surrounding areas! Phase three of the odd-even law will come into effect from November 4. Although most of the exemptions remain intact as before, there are some noteworthy changes. Delhi’s Chief Minister, Arvind Kejriwal, has announced that CNG-powered private cars will have to follow odd-even rules. In other words, only commercial CNG vehicles do not have to comply with the regulations which will stay enforced until November 15, 2019.

Women drivers need not worry as they remain exempt from the upcoming, air pollution-tackling mandate. As before, women drivers, alone, with womenfolk or with children under the age of 12 years, can use the road network without worrying about the odd-even rule. And, they need not worry about the type of fuel powering their vehicle either.

Some might be wondering what the penalty would be if they decide to ignore the odd-even rules. If caught, they would have to shell out a fine of Rs 20,000. Compared to the penalty applicable during the first two phases of this scheme, the new punishment is ten times more. Those who want the details can refer to clause 194 of section 115 in the amended Motor Vehicle Act. Not just that, fines for several other types of offences came into effect from September 1, 2019.

Enforcing odd-even rule for the third time in Delhi-NCR is one of the seven measures that the Kejriwal-led government will implement to tackle the naughty problem of air toxicity. Another one lined-up is a cracker- and pollution-free community Diwali celebrations on October 26 and 27, 2019. With winters fast approaching, air pollution from crop burning in surrounding areas will further worsen Delhi’s breathing issues. As it stands, the Air Quality Index (AQI) across the national capital ranges between the unhealthy and hazardous categories. In numbers, it ranges from 175 to 495.

Also Read: Delhi Might Soon Get Real-Time Vehicular Pollution Check Tech