Taking inspiration from the odd-even scheme in Delhi, the Chandigarh Administration has decided to observe car free day on March 13.
In a meeting held at the UT Secretariat under the chairmanship of Vijay Dev, Adviser to the Administrator, arrangement regarding the “Car Free Day” were discussed with senior officials.
During the meeting various issues regarding availability of public transport, traffic congestion and parking of vehicles at the entry points, routes to be included or excluded, emergency and public service vehicles to be exempted were discussed at large for the success of the “Car Free Day”.
With the suggestions and feedback received from all officials, the decision was taken that the “Car Free Day” will be observed tentatively on March 13 from 7:00 am to 2:00 pm. The citizens of Chandigarh and of neighboring states will be informed much in advance so that no inconvenience is caused to those within the city, and those travelling to and through the city.
It was also decided that cultural programmes, competitions, marathons and other events will be conducted at different locations for participation and to engage people supporting the cause. Few vehicles which are for emergency situations, public service, buses, lPG autos and of those who have a security threat will be exempted from the list.
A road map and plan for the car-free day will also be issued in the newspapers, radio and other mass mediums and shared with the citizens online on mygov.in to seek feedback and suggestions, so that better and timely planning can be done.
In the meeting, Vijay Dev said that, the main aim of the Chandigarh Administration in conducting this day is to promote less car usage amongst citizens, motivate them to opt for public transport, cycles and avoid taking cars for inter-sector work and adapt to walking. “With this not only would the nuisance of traffic congestion and parking be curbed, but it will also inspire more and more to take alternative & healthier commutation options,” he said.