sikkim-govt-lifts-odd-even-curbs-on-private-vehicles-statewide

The Sikkim government has withdrawn the odd-even restriction on the movement of private vehicles across all districts of the state, except Gangtok, following an improvement in fuel availability and the creation of adequate reserve stocks.

 

The decision was announced through a notification issued by the Home Department on Sunday after a review of the state's fuel position. The government said the relaxation would take effect immediately.

 

According to the notification, the Food and Civil Supplies Department informed the government that sufficient buffer stocks of Motor Spirit (petrol) and High-Speed Diesel (diesel) had been created to meet prevailing demand across the state.

 

Based on this assessment, the government amended its earlier notification issued on May 14, revoking the odd-even restrictions on private vehicles in all districts outside Gangtok.

 

However, the odd-even traffic regulation within Gangtok will continue under the provisions of an existing transport department notification issued on October 24, 2024. The government clarified that the relaxation applies only to areas outside the state capital.

Also read: Sikkim enforces odd-even vehicle rule to save fuel

Authorities have also decided to retain restrictions imposed on government vehicles under the May 14 order. In addition, a separate Home Department notification issued on May 20 has been withdrawn with immediate effect.

 

The latest move marks a significant easing of measures that had been introduced amid concerns over fuel availability in the Himalayan state. The restrictions were put in place to manage consumption and ensure the availability of essential supplies during a period of uncertainty over fuel stocks.

 

Officials said the decision to relax the curbs was taken after confirming that adequate reserves were now available to support normal consumption levels across Sikkim. The government, however, indicated that it would continue to monitor fuel supplies and consumption patterns closely to ensure that reserves remain sufficient.

 

The continuation of the odd-even system in Gangtok reflects ongoing efforts to regulate traffic and manage vehicle movement in the state's busiest urban centre, even as restrictions elsewhere are eased.

 

The government has urged residents to continue using fuel responsibly while assuring the public that sufficient stocks are currently available to meet demand.