Supreme Court Seeks Report on Defunct Air Monitoring Stations in Delhi
The Supreme Court has directed the Commission for Air Quality Management and the Central Pollution Control Board to submit a report on the status of air monitoring stations in Delhi, many of which are reportedly non-functional. The court expressed concern over the impact on pollution control measures, especially the Graded Response Action Plan, amid worsening air quality in the national capital.
The Supreme Court has sought a detailed report from the Commission for Air Quality Management and the Central Pollution Control Board regarding the status of air monitoring stations in Delhi, as most of these stations are currently not operational. The court was informed that only 9 out of 37 monitoring stations were functional during Diwali, raising concerns about the effective implementation of the Graded Response Action Plan, which relies on accurate pollution data. Amicus curiae Aparajita Singh emphasized the need for preemptive action to control rising pollution levels, questioning how the plan could be executed without reliable data. Chief Justice of India BR Gavai directed the authorities to submit a report outlining steps taken to prevent further deterioration of air quality. On Monday, Delhi's air quality remained in the 'very poor' category, with an overall Air Quality Index of 316, indicating persistent pollution. The city was blanketed by a grey haze, and temperatures were slightly above average, with mist in the air. The situation highlights the urgent need for functional monitoring infrastructure to manage and mitigate air pollution effectively in the national capital.
