SC Criticizes CAQM For Insufficient Action On Air Pollution; Calls For More Proactive Measures

The Supreme Court on Friday urged the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to intensify its efforts in addressing the persistent issue of air pollution in Delhi and its surrounding areas.

The court expressed disappointment with the commission’s performance, emphasizing that it had taken some actions but had not met the expectations set at its establishment.

Insights

A bench led by Justice Abhay S Oka, with Justice AG Masih, highlighted that although the CAQM has made some progress, its overall impact remains limited.

“The Commission needs to be more proactive to ensure that its efforts translate into tangible improvements in air quality,” the bench remarked.

One of the main concerns raised was the inadequate utilization of equipment provided to curb stubble burning, a significant contributor to pollution during the winter months.

The court underscored the importance of ensuring that the equipment distributed to farmers funded by the central government, actively used at the grassroots level.

The bench directed, “The Commission must immediately take action to ensure that the equipment provided at the cost of the Central government to avoid stubble burning are actually used by the farmers.”

The court further pointed out that despite the existence of the Commission for Air Quality Management in National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas Act, 2021 for over three years, only around 85-87 directives had issued by the commission.

The bench suggested that the commission could have taken more decisive actions under Section 14 of the Act, especially when it found non-compliance with issued directives.

In a surprising revelation, the court learned from the CAQM chairperson that key sub-committees tasked with monitoring and enforcement were meeting just once every three months.

The court questioned how such infrequent meetings could be sufficient to address urgent pollution concerns.

“We are concerned about how these sub-committees, which have crucial responsibilities, can effectively function if they only meet once every quarter,” the bench stated.

Further Hearing On 3 October; CAQM To Present Meeting Details & Decisions

The matter is set for further hearing on 3 October, with the CAQM required to present details of the meetings held and decisions made.

The court also signaled its willingness to use its powers under Article 142 of the Constitution to include senior officers in the CAQM, if necessary, to strengthen its operations.

“If you need senior officials or experts included in the Commission, we will issue directions accordingly under Article 142.

Delays in framing rules and regulations should not hinder swift action,” the court told Additional Advocate General Aishwarya Bhati, who appeared for the CAQM.

SC Seeks CAQM Report On Stubble Burning; Delhi Govt Unveils Winter Pollution Plan

Earlier this week, the Supreme Court had sought a report from the CAQM on measures taken to mitigate the impact of stubble burning, which is a major contributor to Delhi’s severe air pollution, particularly during the months of October to December.

Meanwhile, in a related development, the Delhi government announced an expanded 21-point winter action plan to combat pollution.

This plan includes measures such as drone surveillance, anti-dust campaigns, and mechanized road cleaning, among other emergency actions.

Delhi’s Environment Minister emphasized that the comprehensive plan builds upon last year’s 14-point strategy and aims to further reduce pollution in the city.

He also noted that stubble burning incidents in Punjab have reportedly decreased by 50% since the AAP government took charge, following discussions with Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann.

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