SC raps Delhi government as nation capital chokes under toxic smog
The Supreme Court has sternly rebuked the Delhi government, saying it will not allow scaling down of preventive measures under GRAP-4 without its prior permission, as the national capital continues to reel under severe air pollution.
The apex court bench expressed disappointment over the delay in implementing stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) for the city despite the Air Quality Index (AQI) touching alarming levels. The counsel representing the Delhi government told the court that stage 4 had been implemented from Monday and banned heavy vehicles from entering the national capital.
However, the Bench shot down this move, stating that stage 4 measures should have been put in place immediately when the AQI reached between 300 to 400. The court warned that it would not permit any reduction of these measures even if the AQI fell below a certain level, insisting that Stage 4 will remain in force until the court gives its nod.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) had implemented GRAP-4 on Sunday, effective from Monday, as Delhi's air quality deteriorated. The order included a ban on truck entry, except for those carrying essential items or using clean fuel, as well as restrictions on non-essential light commercial vehicles registered outside the city.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 441 at 4 pm and further rose to 457 by 7 pm due to unfavourable weather conditions. With this latest surge, Delhi's air quality remained hazardous, posing a threat to public health and safety.