SC Raps Delhi Government as Nation Capital Chokes Under Toxic Smog

The Supreme Court of India on Monday expressed its displeasure over the delay in implementing stricter measures to curtail the rising pollution levels in New Delhi, calling upon the Delhi government not to scale down preventive measures without its prior permission.

A Bench of Justices Abhay S Oka and Augustine George Masih directed the government to ensure that the measures are put in place as per the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) and warned that scaling down of these measures would not be allowed unless the court gives its nod.

The instructions came after a rise in Air Quality Index (AQI) reached alarming levels, prompting the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to announce stricter pollution control measures under GRAP-4. The measures include banning truck entry and temporarily halting construction projects for public buildings.

However, the Supreme Court Bench asked the government why it took its time in implementing stage 4 of GRAP despite a significant increase in AQI levels. It also queried the government about steps taken to curb pollution levels.

The court clarified that it would not permit any scaling down of preventive measures under stage 4 unless it gives its permission first, adding that the measures will continue till the court permits them to relax.

On Sunday, the CAQM announced GRAP-4 measures, effective Monday, in response to worsening AQI and unfavorable weather conditions. These measures include strict controls on truck entry and construction projects at public buildings, with exceptions for essential items or clean fuel usage.

According to the order issued by the commission, no trucks would be allowed into Delhi except those carrying essential items or using clean fuel (LNG/CNG/BS-VI diesel/electric). Non-essential light commercial vehicles registered outside Delhi will also be prohibited, except for EVs and CNG and BS-VI diesel ones.

The Supreme Court's strict directive comes amidst alarming health concerns in New Delhi, where toxic smog has led numerous government advisories regarding respiratory issues to citizens.

New Delhi's AQI had shot up on Monday, prompting widespread concern over its impact on citizens' health. The city's air pollution levels were reported at 441 and 457 by 7 pm respectively.