Supreme Court Seeks CAQM Report on Preemptive Measures Against Delhi-NCR Pollution
The Supreme Court directed the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to submit a report detailing preemptive steps to curb Delhi-NCR's deteriorating air quality, currently in the 'very poor' category. The court emphasized the need for immediate action before pollution reaches 'severe' levels and highlighted concerns over non-functional monitoring stations and the implementation of the Graded Response Action Plan.
The Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice Bhushan R Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran, ordered the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to file an affidavit outlining preemptive measures to prevent further deterioration of Delhi-NCR's air quality, which is already in the 'very poor' category. The direction came during a hearing on the ongoing MC Mehta case, with amicus curiae Aparajita Singh raising concerns about CAQM's inaction and the non-functioning of several monitoring stations during Diwali. The court stressed the importance of implementing the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) before pollution levels escalate to 'severe'. Senior advocate Ruchi Kohli, representing CAQM, stated that a report had already been submitted, but Singh insisted on CAQM's responsibility to update the court. The Centre, through additional solicitor general Aishwarya Bhati, assured compliance. The court reviewed AQI data showing a steady decline in air quality from October 15 to November 2, with readings ranging from 233 to 366, and noted a reduction in stubble burning incidents in Punjab and Haryana compared to the previous year. The bench directed CAQM to include specific preventive and emergency measures in its report and adjourned the matter for further hearing.
