SC criticises Delhi govt over rising pollution
The Supreme Court of India on Monday sharply questioned the Delhi government over its delay in enforcing Stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) despite severe air pollution in the national capital. Justices Abhay S Oka and Augustine George Masih expressed concern over the slow implementation of measures, even as the Air Quality Index (AQI) reached critical levels. The court highlighted the necessity of enforcing Stage 4 when the AQI reaches between 300 and 400, emphasising that delaying these measures puts citizens at risk. The bench made it clear that no relaxation in Stage 4 measures would be allowed, even if the AQI fell below 450.
In response, the Delhi government counsel informed the court that Stage 4 of GRAP was enforced starting Monday, which includes banning the entry of heavy vehicles into the city. Delhi's Chief Minister Atishi confirmed that schools would shift to online classes, except for students in Classes 10 and 12, as part of the measures to combat the pollution. The GRAP-4 action plan includes strict actions like a ban on BS-IV and below diesel-powered vehicles entering the city, except those carrying essential goods or providing emergency services​.
This move comes after a sharp deterioration in Delhi's air quality, which had fallen into the "severe plus" category over the weekend. The Supreme Court's intervention underscores the urgency of tackling the city's pollution crisis effectively.