Odd-even second phase: DCW seeks women's views on exemption

NEW DELHI: Delhi Commission for Women ( DCW) today sought the views of women on the issue of exemption of cars driven by them during the second phase of the fortnight-long odd-even restrictions beginning April 15.

The first phase of the odd-even scheme was rolled out on January 1 for 15 days.

Delhi Transport Minister Gopal Rai had yesterday said CNG cars have been kept out of the ambit of the odd-even scheme, while a decision on whether women drivers will continue to be exempted will be taken soon.

The Commission asked women to share their views and opinions via email to - suggestions.dcw@gmail.com.-, latest by April 4.

"Several research studies have revealed that pollution takes a greater toll on women and children, causing diseases like cancer, reproductive dysfunction, immunologic and neurologic impairment amongst others. The odd-even scheme by the Delhi Government is a great initiative to reduce vehicular pollution in Delhi.

"The Commission has learnt that the scheme will be rolled-out again from April 15 onwards. In this regard, the Transport Minister of Delhi, Gopal Rai, has sought the views of DCW on the issue of exemption of cars driven by women from the scheme," said DCW chairperson Swati Maliwal.
The Commission, Maliwal said, wishes to solicit the opinion of the women of Delhi in order to formulate its recommendations on the issue, which will then be presented to the Transport Minister.

The Commission also encouraged representations of various NGOs that are working on women's issues to give their suggestions in this regard, she said.