Delhi Pollution: SC Orders Action On GRAP Violations, Directs Relief For Affected Workers

The Supreme Court on Monday directed the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to act against officials and entities failing to implement Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan also known as GRAP in Delhi and NCR.

A bench of Justices Abhay S Oka and AG Masih said it will not allow relaxation of Stage IV norms without a consistent decline in the Air Quality Index (AQI).

Supreme Court Orders Relief for Workers

The court instructed Delhi and NCR governments to use labour cess funds to support construction workers affected by the ban. It ordered CAQM to issue directions under the Air Quality Management Act to help daily wagers and economically weaker sections.

Court Expresses Concern Over Schools

The bench raised concerns about school closures affecting students’ mid-day meals and education. It asked CAQM to decide on reopening physical classes for Classes 10 and 12. The court noted many students lack air purifiers, making home conditions no better than schools.

Urgent Deadlines for Action on implementation of GRAP

The court directed CAQM to act swiftly on school reopenings and other relief measures, ensuring implementation by Tuesday morning. It stressed strict enforcement of all Stage IV actions.

Court-appointed commissioners will continue inspections and submit reports on compliance. The Supreme Court will hear the public interest litigation (PIL) on pollution control again on Thursday.

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