The Supreme Court has resumed the MC Mehta case, addressing Delhi’s severe pollution and stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana. Expressing concern over inadequate fines and enforcement, the Court emphasized the need for stringent measures on issues like firecracker bans, vehicular emissions, and industrial pollution. Compliance reports, stricter penalties, and public awareness campaigns were directed to curb pollution effectively.
New Delhi: The Supreme Court has resumed hearings on the MC Mehta case, which deals with Delhi’s escalating pollution levels and stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana. On October 23, the Court expressed concern that the Union government’s current measures lack effectiveness, noting that minimal fines are levied against offenders, thus failing to curb air pollution in Delhi NCR.
Today, the Court focuses on critical pollution contributors, including:
- Transportation Emissions in Delhi
- Industrial Pollution in Delhi and surrounding areas
- Heavy Truck Entry into the city
- Open Garbage Burning across Delhi
Justice Oka raised questions about the Union of India’s representative, with Senior Advocate Archana Pathak (ASG) appearing for the Union. He emphasized the need for decisive action rather than just advisory recommendations, stating,
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“You must either accept or reject it. You can’t keep giving them advice while their request remains pending.”
The Court’s discussion then turned to Section 15 of the Environmental Protection Act, 1986, which mandates specific rules for environmental protection. ASG Dave confirmed that these rules are ready for publication in the gazette this week. Consequently, the Court directed the Union to submit a compliance report by November 14.
The Court also reviewed compliance with the color-coded sticker mandate per its December 2023 order. NCR states have been given one month to enforce this directive. Additionally, the Ministry of Road, Transport, and Highways has been ordered to meet with state and UT Secretaries to coordinate efforts to control vehicular pollution.
Justice Oka also questioned the Delhi Government’s enforcement of the firecracker ban, referencing widespread media reports indicating that the ban was not observed during Diwali celebrations. A notice will be issued to the Delhi Police Commissioner regarding this non-compliance. Justice Oka noted that while penalties under the Air Prevention Act, 1981 are now enforced, stronger actions, like sealing premises that sell firecrackers illegally, must be taken.
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The Amicus Curiae highlighted that pollution levels on Diwali night surged from 10% to 27% in a single day. Justice Oka expressed concern that pollution levels exceeded those of the previous two years despite preventive measures. He also suggested a public awareness campaign ahead of Diwali to curb pollution and enhance public understanding.
As the Supreme Court continues its examination, attention remains focused on urgent compliance and enforcement. With expectations for improved regulations and punitive actions, the Court’s stance reflects its commitment to addressing Delhi’s severe pollution crisis head-on.
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