The Supreme Court of India has urged the Central government to revisit its action plan amid continued concerns about air pollution across Delhi-NCR. The remarks came days after the Commission for Air Quality Management eased its stringent Stage III restrictions across the National Capital Region. Delhi recorded an AQI of 298 on Monday — hovering near the ‘very poor’ category after a brief respite.
“Why don’t you make a revisit to your action-plan to see for yourself that have you brought any effective changes? And if you have then are they less than what needed? We think it’s important evaluate has any of your action plan has been proved to be effective or ineffective or less effective? Despite your hesitance, confidence, of whether you’d be able achieve effective change, is it not right to revisit action plan? Evaluation of steps you have taken so far,” asked Chief Justice Surya Kant.
The matter was posted for December 10 — with the Supreme Court adding that it would hear the issue at least twice every month. The court also acknowledged that the situation may pacify post the winter-season but in this regard “history will repeat itself”.
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‘Not just stubble burning’
The apex court also asked Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati (representing CAQM) to name factors aside from stubble burning that may be contributing to the soaring AQI levels. The Bench noted that it was easy to blame a section of people (farmers) that remained unrepresented before the Court — calling for scientific analysis to determine the factors.
“Stubble-burning was happening as usual. Why could people see blue skies 4-5 years ago? Why couldn’t they see them now?” the Supreme Court asked.
Delhi AQI worsens again
The national capital recorded an AQI mere points away from the ‘very poor’ category on Monday with a layer of smog blanketing the city. Strong winds had briefly brought down the air quality to ‘poor’ category for the first time in 16 days on Sunday.
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