Odd-even plan is aimed at cutting down Delhi's dangerously high air pollution.
The real test for Arvind Kejriwal's odd-even anti-pollution rule began today, with Delhi getting back to work after a long weekend. Today is January 4, which means that only cars with even registration numbers are allowed on the capital's roads.
400 people have been fined so far today for flouting the rule, barring the morning rush hour to avoid traffic jams.
The measure, aimed at cutting down Delhi's dangerously high air pollution, came into effect from January 1.
The Delhi government said it is prepped to meet the challenge. Volunteers, including National Cadet Corps and National Service Scheme cadets, have been asked to use hidden cameras to take pictures of those who violate the rule and additional policemen have been stationed to ensure compliance.
People who violate the odd-even rule will be fined Rs 2,000. Women drivers and a list of VIPs have been exempted.
Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his cabinet have pledged to show the way by example. "On my way to office," tweeted Delhi minister Kapil Mishra, using the hashtag #IamWithOddEven. The tourist minister is travelling to work by bus.
Mr Kejriwal will car pool with two other ministers Gopal Rai and Satyendar Jain. Mr Rai has an even numbered car which they will use today.
Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia has said he will cycle down to the Delhi Secretariat, where the Delhi government sits.
Gopal Rai, who is Delhi's Transport Minister, on Sunday
held a meeting with senior officers from the city's Traffic Police, Delhi Police, civil defence forces, Metro officials and other agencies.
He claimed the scheme has so far been a success. "As we saw that on the first day of this pilot project, people came out with odd-numbered vehicles and on the second day yesterday, even-numbered vehicles were on the capital roads. This itself is an indication that the mindset of people for environment is changing and I salute all Delhiites for this 2 days' success", Mr Rai said after the meeting.
Public buses are expected to carry 64 lakh commuters from today, much more than usual and the Delhi Metro will transport about 32 lakh people, up from 26 lakh every day.