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The Supreme Court of India has issued a ruling that mandates the continued enforcement of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) level IV in Delhi, irrespective of any improvement in the Air Quality Index (AQI). This decision underscores the court's commitment to tackling the persistent air pollution crisis plaguing the national capital. GRAP IV, typically implemented when the AQI surpasses 450, enacts stringent measures including a complete ban on construction activities, closure of schools, and the implementation of an odd-even vehicle rationing scheme. The court's order explicitly states that the relaxation of these measures to a level below GRAP IV will require explicit judicial permission, even if the AQI falls below the 300 threshold. This proactive approach signifies a departure from previous practices where the severity of restrictions was solely determined by the fluctuating AQI levels. The decision reflects a more robust and sustained commitment to improving air quality, even if it means maintaining stringent regulations during periods of temporary AQI improvement.
The rationale behind the Supreme Court's decision stems from the recognition that temporary improvements in AQI do not necessarily signal a lasting solution to Delhi's chronic air pollution problem. The city's air quality is often heavily influenced by seasonal factors and meteorological conditions. A temporary dip in AQI could be misleading, potentially leading to premature relaxation of the GRAP measures and a subsequent resurgence of poor air quality. The court's order aims to prevent this cyclical pattern by maintaining consistent pressure on implementing long-term solutions, thereby fostering a more sustainable improvement in Delhi's air quality. This proactive stance also highlights the judiciary's role in environmental governance, actively ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and taking preventive measures to address potential setbacks.
The implementation of GRAP IV involves a range of far-reaching restrictions on various sectors. Construction activities, a major contributor to particulate matter pollution, face a complete ban. Schools are closed to minimize exposure of children to harmful pollutants. The odd-even vehicle rationing scheme limits the number of vehicles on the road, thus reducing vehicular emissions. Entry restrictions are also placed on trucks entering Delhi, except for those carrying essential commodities or providing essential services. Even within the permitted categories, restrictions are imposed based on vehicle emission standards. LNG/CNG/Electric/BS-VI Diesel trucks are exempt, while light commercial vehicles registered outside Delhi are subject to similar restrictions unless carrying essential goods or providing essential services. The comprehensive nature of GRAP IV demonstrates the severity of the air pollution crisis and the necessary extent of intervention required to achieve significant and lasting improvements.
The Supreme Court's decision to maintain GRAP IV irrespective of AQI levels is a significant step towards a more proactive and sustained approach to air quality management. It represents a departure from a reactive approach solely based on AQI fluctuations. The court’s emphasis on maintaining stringent measures even during temporary AQI improvements reflects a deeper understanding of the complexity of Delhi's air pollution problem and the need for consistent efforts towards long-term solutions. This move empowers the judiciary to play a crucial role in environmental protection, ensuring accountability and adherence to environmental regulations. The ruling is likely to have a significant impact on various sectors in Delhi, demanding a sustained commitment to environmental responsibility and long-term, sustainable changes in practices that contribute to air pollution.
Source: Delhi Air Quality: Supreme Court says GRAP IV should remain in force even if AQI improves