Delhi-NCR's Air Pollution Crisis: Supreme Court To Review Urgent Measures Next Week

Delhi-NCR is experiencing a severe air pollution crisis, with AQI levels soaring to dangerous heights. The Supreme Court will address this issue on November 12, as experts urge immediate actions against stubble burning and emissions.

The air pollution crisis in Delhi-NCR is intensifying, with air quality reaching dangerous levels. Experts attribute this to stubble burning in nearby states, along with emissions from vehicles and industries.

After a short-lived improvement, Delhi's air quality worsened again on Thursday, falling into the 'very poor' category. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) recorded an average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 311. Experts caution that without strict measures, relief may not be forthcoming soon.

Supreme Court's Role in Addressing Pollution

The Supreme Court of India is set to address the air pollution issue on November 12. During a recent session, lawyers highlighted the urgency: "The air quality in the NCR is deteriorating, as the court would be aware. On November 3, the court had directed the commission and CPCB to file an affidavit. No specific date has been set to list this matter yet. The listing may occur on Monday. This is urgent, and we genuinely don't know what is happening while the city's air continues to worsen."

Following Diwali celebrations, CPCB data indicated that Delhi's AQI surpassed 450 in several areas due to firecracker smoke and ongoing stubble burning in nearby states. For reference, CPCB classifies AQI levels as follows:

Recent Measures and Their Impact on Air Quality

The recent surge in pollution followed Delhi's first "green Diwali" celebration in years. The Supreme Court permitted green crackers between October 18 and October 20 during two specific time slots: from 6 am to 7 am and from 8 pm to 10 pm. However, many residents did not adhere to these restrictions.

The Supreme Court also instructed both Central and State Pollution Control Boards to monitor daily air quality from October 14 to October 25 and submit regular reports.

Implementation of GRAP Stage II Measures

Delhi is currently under GRAP Stage II (very poor), which was activated on October 19 when AQI reached between 301-400. This stage involves measures such as increased parking fees in certain parts of New Delhi and restrictions on polluting activities aimed at alleviating the severe air quality crisis.

The situation remains critical as authorities continue efforts to manage pollution levels effectively. The outcome of these interventions will be closely monitored by both experts and residents alike.