SC Demands Broader Focus On Pollution; Proposes Nationwide Air Quality Strategy

The Supreme Court, during a hearing on the solid waste disposal case, widened its focus to include pollution issues across the country. A bench of Justice Abhay S Oka and Justice Manmohan reprimanded the Delhi Chief Secretary, directing him to submit an affidavit by December 19.

The court also ordered the Chief Secretary to appear in person during the next hearing. It warned of contempt proceedings if the November 11 orders remain unimplemented. The bench emphasized that its concern extends beyond Delhi NCR, stating that pollution across India requires equal attention.

Central Government Questioned on Broader Measures

The court asked the central government whether it could establish an Air Quality Management Commission for other heavily polluted cities. This would mirror the model adopted for Delhi NCR. The Supreme Court highlighted that pollution in cities like Delhi should not overshadow the challenges faced by other parts of the country.

The court also referenced the MC Mehta case, initiated in 1985, which addresses environmental issues in India. It stressed the importance of ensuring strict adherence to the Graded Response Action Plan (Grape).

Strict AQI Measures Already in Place

In a prior hearing, the court directed that Grape-4 restrictions should be lifted. However, it clarified that if the Air Quality Index (AQI) surpasses 350, Grape-3 measures must be reinstated immediately. For AQI levels above 400, Grape-4 would be reintroduced.

The Air Quality Management Commission, established in 2021 following the Supreme Court’s intervention, currently monitors Delhi NCR. The court has now suggested a similar mechanism for other cities with high pollution levels. The hearing continues to stress accountability and urgent measures to tackle pollution nationwide.

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