The Supreme Court in India voiced strong disapproval of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on Tuesday, suggesting that its unserious approach to Delhi-NCR’s air quality crisis has hindered progress in combating the ongoing pollution problems in the area. Supreme Court pulls up CAQM over Delhi-NCR air quality, led by Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi, conveyed their dissatisfaction with the consistently poor air quality, instructing CAQM to take immediate and open steps to determine the causes of pollution and create lasting solutions.

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Court Criticizes Delay & Demands Expert Report

Chief Justice Kant criticized CAQM’s status report, calling it lacking in seriousness and substance. The Supreme Court noted that instead of offering specific, data-driven solutions, the commission presented an update that failed to adequately address long-standing issues. Those issues include vehicle emissions, pollution from factories, and dust from construction sites. The judges noted that even with expert input over several years, pollution levels have remained stubbornly high, and in some cases, have worsened.

The court mandated that CAQM organize a meeting of specialists within two weeks. The specialists are to prepare a report that identifies the major factors contributing to the declining Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi-NCR. That report should be made public to ensure transparency and encourage public involvement in the process.

Delhi-NCR AQI Trend – December

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Public Disclosure and Long-Term Strategy Needed

Aside from pinpointing the sources of pollution, the Supreme Court emphasized that CAQM must develop long-term solutions that can be implemented gradually. The judges cautioned against repeated delays, stressing that identifying pollution sources and creating sustainable solutions cannot be postponed, highlighting that accurately determining emission sources is vital for taking action.

During the winter months, Delhi-NCR’s air quality has fluctuated between poor and worse, leading to repeated warnings from health and weather agencies. Residents often experience breathing problems, eye irritation, and other health issues as the AQI remains high. Measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) have been used at times.

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A Call for Responsibility and Action

Supreme Court pulls up CAQM over Delhi-NCR air quality reflects growing impatience from both the legal system and the public as seasonal smog continues to negatively impact the lives of millions. The directives seek to shift the focus away from short-term fixes, aiming to head toward strategic, science-based planning that considers vehicle emissions, construction dust, factory pollution, and seasonal burning of crops.

As authorities prepare to submit the expert report, the Supreme Court’s strong words signal increased oversight, pushing for a more determined effort to address the city’s ongoing pollution issue.

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