SC raps Delhi government as nation capital chokes under toxic smog

The Supreme Court on Monday expressed its disappointment and concern over the slow implementation of stricter measures to curb the alarming rise in air pollution levels in New Delhi, also known as the national capital.

The Bench of Justices Abhay S Oka and Augustine George Masih pointed out that there was a delay in implementation of preventive measures under stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) even after the Air Quality Index (AQI) touched alarming levels in the city.

In response to this, the Supreme Court directed the Delhi government not to scale down of the preventive measures unless it gives its prior permission. "The moment the AQI reaches between 300 and 400, stage 4 has to be invoked," Justice Oka said. The court expressed its willingness to hear further arguments on Monday.

On Sunday, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) announced stricter pollution control measures for the Delhi-NCR under GRAP-4, effective from 8 am on Monday. These measures include a ban on truck entry and a temporary halt on construction at public projects.

Air quality readings in New Delhi reached 441 last night, with another increase to 457 by 7 pm due to unfavourable weather conditions. The Supreme Court will continue to monitor the situation and may take further action if necessary.

The court's intervention comes as New Delhi chokes under toxic smog, prompting people to wear masks while going about their daily activities.