By NE NOW NEWS
Guwahati: The High Court of Sikkim has taken up a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) questioning the state government’s implementation of the odd-even vehicle movement system and has sought feedback from citizens affected by the measure.
The petition, filed by Mahesh Rai, spokesperson of the Citizen Action Party-Sikkim (CAP), raises concerns about the impact of the traffic regulation on daily commuters and residents across the state.
During proceedings on May 30, a division bench directed all District Collectors in Sikkim to initiate a public consultation process by issuing notices within three days. The officials have been asked to collect complaints, suggestions and concerns related to the policy and submit detailed reports before the court.
The bench also sought clarification from the state government regarding the arrangements made to support public mobility while the restrictions remain in force. Authorities have been instructed to furnish details of transport facilities and other measures introduced to ease commuting for residents.
The odd-even system, introduced as part of the government’s traffic management strategy, limits the movement of private vehicles based on registration numbers on designated days. While officials have maintained that the measure is intended to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion, it has triggered criticism from several quarters over its effect on everyday travel.
With the court now examining both public concerns and the government’s preparedness, the matter is set to return for hearing on June 9. The reports submitted by district administrations and the state government are expected to play a key role in the court’s further consideration of the policy.