Delhi air pollution: NGT slams all, calls attitude shameful

The tribunal was hearing a plea for immediate action against the worsening air quality in Delhi-NCR stating that it was an 'environmental emergency' that was affecting children and senior citizens

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) pulled up Delhi Government and civic authorities for failing to take measures to control air pollution in smog-covered Delhi. The NGT directed that industrial activities should not be carried on in Delhi till the next hearing and asked the government to depute an officer to monitor the polluting activities.

"All the constitutional authorities and statutory bodies measurably failed to perform their duties. So far pollution is the concern, it is a joint responsibility of all the stakeholders" said NGT.

NGT observed that "Even construction work taking place openly isn't being stopped, and when such a situation has ensued now action is being promised".

The tribunal further slammed neighbouring states of Delhi and raised the question on their seriousness on the grievous situation.

Making scathing remarks, NGT lashed out at Delhi government and the Central Pollution Control Board, saying "It is shameful for all the parties in this matter on what they're passing on to the next generation".

Also, the Delhi Government, Municipal Corporations and neighbouring states were asked to see the pitiable condition of people in hospitals and the way their lives are being played with.

NGT observed that "Articles 21 and 48 of the Constitutional mandate that it is the responsibility of governments to make sure that citizens get a clean and conducive environment. Right to life is being snatched from people since they're not getting a clean environment."

The tribunal was hearing a plea for immediate action against the worsening air quality in Delhi-NCR stating that it was an 'environmental emergency' that was affecting children and senior citizens the most.

The plea said that according to a CPCB report, post-Diwali, the ambient air quality of Delhi on October 17, 18 and 19 were found to be "very poor", adding that despite

NGT asked all concerned authorities and pollution control boards to file status report in the next hearing on 14th November.

OneIndia News