Sikkim’s first snowfall of the season has led to a surge in tourist activity, prompting the local government in Gangtok to implement a traffic regulation system known as the “Odd-Even” rule to manage the increased vehicular flow. The rule will be active within the limits of Gangtok, particularly along the stretch of the National Highway from Mayfair Fatak to GICI, Zero Point, starting from November 5, 2024.
The Odd-Even traffic system, legislated under Section 115 of the Motor Vehicle Act of 1988, dictates that vehicles with odd-numbered ending registration digits (1, 3, 5, 7, 9) are allowed on the roads on odd-numbered days, while those with even digits (0, 2, 4, 6, 8) on even days. This system is enforced during peak hours from 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM and from 3:30 PM to 6:00 PM each day, with a non-restricted window from 12:00 PM to 3:30 PM to provide flexibility for midday travel. Not all areas are subject to this rule; routes like the Indira Bye-Pass and Northern Bye-Pass are exempt. Emergency vehicles will also bypass this rule to ensure continuous service delivery.
To ensure compliance, the government has enacted penalties under Sections 177 and 179(1) of the Motor Vehicle Act for non-compliance, emphasizing its commitment to reducing congestion and enhancing travel conditions for both residents and visitors during the high tourism season. Exceptions are further extended to the second and fourth Saturdays, Sundays, and days observed as government holidays, permitting free movement.
The effectiveness of the Odd-Even rule will be evaluated regularly, allowing for necessary adjustments to ensure efficient traffic management throughout Gangtok’s bustling winter months. The local government hopes that this traffic regulation system will ease congestion and provide a more comfortable and safe travel experience for tourists and residents alike.