SC Slams Delhi Govt Over Delay In Pollution Control Measures Amid Rising AQI

In a stern rebuke, the Supreme Court of India on Monday questioned the Delhi government regarding the delay in implementing Stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) despite alarming air pollution levels in the capital.

Justices Abhay S Oka and Augustine George Masih expressed concerns over the delay in enforcing crucial measures, even as the Air Quality Index (AQI) continued to reach hazardous levels in Delhi.

The bench emphasized that Stage 4, which includes stringent anti-pollution measures, should have been activated sooner as the AQI crossed the critical threshold. The court raised concerns about the potential risks involved in postponing the implementation of Stage 4, which includes a ban on heavy vehicles entering Delhi.

The counsel for the Delhi government confirmed that Stage 4 was enforced starting Monday, but the court stressed that preventive actions must not be reduced, even if the AQI temporarily drops below 450. The bench remarked, "The moment the AQI reaches between 300 and 400, Stage 4 has to be invoked. How can you take a risk in these matters by delaying its applicability?"

The court has also directed the Delhi government to clarify the steps it has taken to address the ongoing pollution crisis, which continues to pose significant health risks to residents. In response to the rising pollution levels, Delhi Chief Minister Atishi announced a series of measures, including the closure of schools for physical classes, which will now shift to online learning, except for students in Classes 10 and 12.

Stage 4 of the GRAP, which was introduced on Monday, includes several stringent measures such as a ban on diesel-powered vehicles below the BS-IV standard, except for those transporting essential goods or providing emergency services. Construction and demolition activities have also been halted, with exceptions made only for critical infrastructure projects, including metro rail construction, hospitals, railways, and defence facilities.

These measures are designed to curb the rising pollution levels that have pushed the city's AQI to hazardous levels, with readings surpassing 1,500 in multiple areas. According to the latest data, the AQI across Delhi was recorded in the "hazardous" category, with values ranging from 1300 to 1600.

Areas such as Mundka, Dwarka-Sector 8, and Rohini reported the highest AQI levels, indicating the severity of the pollution. The pollution crisis has engulfed the national capital, leading to widespread smog and deteriorating air quality, which experts warn could have long-term health consequences for residents.

As Delhi battles this environmental crisis, the Supreme Court's intervention underscores the urgent need for swift and effective action to mitigate the impact of pollution. The court's directions will play a crucial role in ensuring that the measures under the GRAP are implemented without delay, safeguarding the health of millions in the capital.