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The Supreme Court of India delivered a scathing rebuke to the Delhi government on Monday, harshly criticizing its delay in implementing Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Level 4, a crucial set of anti-pollution measures designed to combat the alarmingly high air pollution levels plaguing the National Capital Region (NCR). The court's firm stance underscores the gravity of the situation and the urgent need for effective action to protect public health. The justices unequivocally stated that the preventive measures under GRAP Stage 4 would remain in effect until further court orders, regardless of any temporary improvements in the Air Quality Index (AQI). This decisive action reflects the court's commitment to safeguarding citizens' fundamental right to a pollution-free environment, a right enshrined in Article 21 of the Indian Constitution.
The court's decision stems from the Delhi government's attempt to postpone the implementation of GRAP Stage 4, despite dangerously high AQI levels across the city. Readings soared to alarming heights, with Mundka recording an AQI of 919, ITI Jahangirpuri at 762, and Anand Vihar at 624 – all firmly entrenched in the 'severe-plus' category. These figures paint a stark picture of the severe air pollution crisis and the immediate threat it poses to the health and well-being of Delhi's residents. The judges highlighted the unacceptable risk involved in delaying the implementation of vital pollution control measures, emphasizing the need for proactive rather than reactive strategies. The court's frustration was palpable, reflecting the perceived inadequacy of the response from both the Delhi government and other relevant authorities.
The court's criticism extended beyond the Delhi government. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), responsible for coordinating pollution control efforts across the NCR, also faced scrutiny for its perceived shortcomings. The Supreme Court has repeatedly voiced its disappointment with the lack of effective coordination and collaboration among the Centre, the CAQM, and state governments, including Punjab and Haryana, which are major contributors to stubble burning, a significant source of air pollution during the winter months. The court's ongoing involvement underscores the systemic failures in addressing the persistent air pollution crisis and the lack of cohesive, timely action from various governmental bodies. The court emphasized that the failure to enforce regulations effectively undermines efforts to control air pollution and seriously jeopardizes public health.
The court's actions on Monday were not isolated incidents. The bench had previously criticized the lack of enforcement during Diwali, noting that the celebratory fireworks significantly aggravated the already dire air pollution levels. The judges pointed out that no religious practice should condone activities that harm public health. This statement highlights the need for a balanced approach that respects religious practices while prioritizing public health and safety. The court's reprimand of the Delhi Police for insufficient enforcement, specifically their failure to go beyond confiscating raw materials used in the manufacturing of firecrackers, underscored the need for stricter measures and more effective law enforcement. The court directed the Delhi Police Commissioner to establish a specialized cell to improve enforcement efforts throughout the NCR and to submit a personal affidavit detailing the steps taken to address this issue.
The Supreme Court's decision to keep GRAP Stage 4 in effect until further notice signifies a major shift in the approach to tackling air pollution in Delhi. The court's actions, coupled with its previous criticisms and directives, send a clear message to all relevant authorities: decisive, coordinated action is needed to effectively address this persistent and life-threatening crisis. The court's emphasis on the fundamental right to a pollution-free environment under Article 21 serves as a powerful reminder of the government's responsibility to protect its citizens' well-being. The court’s directive to the Delhi government to decide by November 25 on imposing a permanent ban on firecrackers further solidifies its commitment to achieving long-term solutions to mitigate air pollution in the region. The ongoing judicial oversight indicates that the court will continue its active role in ensuring the implementation of effective pollution control measures.
The long-term implications of the Supreme Court's decision extend beyond the immediate implementation of GRAP Stage 4. It signals a sustained commitment from the judiciary to hold the government accountable for its performance in protecting public health. It sets a precedent for future action, pushing authorities to prioritize proactive and collaborative measures to address air pollution effectively. The ruling also underlines the crucial role of judicial intervention in environmental protection, highlighting the importance of legal avenues in addressing environmental challenges when administrative mechanisms prove inadequate. This ruling is expected to foster a more rigorous approach to pollution control, influencing policy changes and prompting greater inter-governmental cooperation in the fight against air pollution.