Dimapur: To ease severe traffic congestion during the festive season and facilitate ongoing rehabilitation of the Road Over Bridge (ROB) near Hotel Senti, the Dimapur Police have reinstated the odd-even vehicle regulation system. The rule, effective from December 10, 2024, will be enforced daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM within the Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) jurisdiction.
The directive, issued by Commissioner of Police Kevithuto Sophie, IPS, under Section 115 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, aims to streamline traffic for public convenience. It will remain in force for one month or until the completion of the ROB rehabilitation work, whichever occurs earlier.
Under this system, vehicles with odd-numbered registrations (ending in 1, 3, 5, 7, 9) will be allowed to operate on odd dates (e.g., December 11, 13, 15). Similarly, vehicles with even-numbered registrations (ending in 0, 2, 4, 6, 8) will be permitted on even dates (e.g., December 10, 12, 14).
Certain vehicles are exempt from the restriction, including those registered to the government, emergency services, school buses, and public transport vehicles such as taxis (both two-wheelers and four-wheelers). However, autorickshaws are not exempt.
Additionally, the regulation will not apply on Sundays, Christmas Day (December 25, 2024), or New Year’s Day (January 1, 2025).
Commissioner Sophie urged public cooperation, emphasizing the importance of minimizing unnecessary travel and promoting car-pooling to reduce inconvenience. “In order for successful implementation of the Odd-Even Exercise, public are requested to cooperate accordingly and avoid unnecessary travels. Car-pooling is recommended to avoid inconveniences,” the order stated.
Violators of the odd-even rule will face penalties under Sections 177 and 179 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988.
The odd-even system, previously employed in Dimapur to manage traffic flow during peak periods, is expected to offer relief amidst the heightened congestion of the festive season. Public adherence will be key to the successful implementation of the regulation, ensuring smoother traffic movement and facilitating the critical rehabilitation work on the ROB.
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