Travelling To Sikkim? From Nov 5 Onwards, Gangtok Has An Odd-Even Rule To Manage Traffic; All About It

Sikkim is renowned for its icy lakes, serene monasteries and snowcapped mountain views. Come winter, the Northeast destination of India is rife with tourists eager to catch a glimpse of the snow. As Sikkim experiences the first snowfall of the season, the capital Gangtok is witnessing huge tourist arrivals. Keeping future arrivals in mind, the Sikkim government has implemented an “Odd-Even” rule in Gangtok to manage the traffic situation.

Sikkim Implements Odd-Even Rule In Gangtok To Manage Traffic

As per a report by Times Of India or TOI, the Sikkim government has implemented an “Odd-Even” rule to manage traffic in the city. This rule will be effective from November 5, 2o24. And this rule will remain in place for an unspecified period. With a telos to reduce congestion in the capital’s buzzing streets, this rule was implemented under Section 115 of the Motor Vehicle Act, of 1988.

Sikkim government’s odd-even rule is applicable to both government and private vehicles. It’s based on the last digit of the vehicle’s registration numbers. On odd-numbered days, vehicles with registration numbers ending with odd digits (1,3,5,7 and 9) can operate. And on even-numbered days, vehicles with even last digits (0,2,4,6, and 8) can ply the roads.

The rule applies to Gangtok’s municipal limits, especially along the National Highway from Mayfair Fatak to GICI, Zero Point. Both tourists and residents can have ease of movement while driving down the roads of the busy destination. The narrow mountain roads of Sikkim often get jammed during the peak tourist season.

Also Read: Why Does Sikkim Not Have A Railway Station Till Now?

Exceptions To This Rule

So, this odd-even rule allows for easy commute and convenience during the peak traffic hours from 9:30 AM to 12 PM and then again from 3:30 PM to 6 PM on a daily basis. However, a grace period from 12 PM to 3:30 PM permits unrestricted travel and flexibility for all vehicles (even and odd-numbered). During this time, they are free to travel and complete their chores.

Also Read: 7 Facts About Sikkim’s Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary

The balance helps to accommodate all kinds of travel during the day. Bear in mind, that there are exceptions to this rule. Emergency vehicles like ambulances are exempted from this rule. Also, key routes like Northern Bye-Pass and Indira Bye-Pass in Gangtok are also excluded from this regulation. Also, on government-approved holidays and 2nd and 4th Saturdays and Sundays, this rule is not applicable. Exemptions to this odd-even rule in Gangtok provide relief to both locals and tourists.

If you’re travelling to Sikkim in November, keep this odd-even rule in Gangtok in mind,

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