SC Raps Delhi Government as Nation Capital Chokes Under Toxic Smog

The Supreme Court has taken a strong stance against the Delhi government over its delay in implementing stricter measures to combat rising pollution levels in the national capital.

In a scathing rebuke, a Bench of Justices Abhay S Oka and Augustine George Masih said it will not allow scaling down of preventive measures without their prior permission. The court pointed out that there was a delay in implementing stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which has been invoked due to alarming air quality levels in Delhi.

The Bench told the counsel for the Delhi government that stage 4 should have been implemented sooner, as it requires the implementation of stricter measures to curb pollution. The court expressed its concern over the delay and asked what steps have been taken by the government to control the rising pollution levels.

"We won't allow scaling down of preventive measures under stage 4 even if AQI goes below 450. Stage 4 will continue till court permits," Justice Oka said. The Supreme Court has agreed to hear the matter in detail later in the day.

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) had announced stricter pollution control measures for Delhi-NCR under GRAP-4, which have been implemented from Monday. These measures include a ban on truck entry and a temporary halt on construction at public projects. The AQI worsened to 457 by 7 pm due to unfavourable weather conditions.

The court's scathing rebuke comes as Delhi continues to choke with toxic smog, leaving residents struggling to breathe. Delhiites are advised to wear face masks and take necessary precautions as the air quality remains in a hazardous range.