Today, On 16th October, The Supreme Court sharply criticized the governments of Punjab and Haryana, giving them one week to address the persistent issue of air pollution in Delhi caused by stubble burning in their states. The court expressed frustration over the lack of effective measures to control pollution, which severely impacts the air quality in the National Capital Region each year.
New Delhi: The Supreme Court, On Wednesday, harshly criticized the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), a central government body responsible for monitoring air quality and pollution in the National Capital Region.
The court labelled the panel a “toothless wonder” for its inability to enforce regulations or follow directives effectively. Furthermore, the court expressed frustration that none of the CAQM members were adequately qualified to serve on the panel, pointing to “total non-compliance” with the law.
Additionally, the Punjab and Haryana governments were reprimanded for failing to prosecute individuals violating air pollution regulations.
The Supreme Court questioned why the state is hesitant to prosecute individuals involved in stubble burning, opting instead to impose minimal fines.
The court remarked,
“ISRO is providing you the exact location of fires, and yet you claim nothing is found,”
It further emphasized,
“This is not a political issue. If the Chief Secretary is acting under someone’s influence, we will issue summons against them as well. The attitude shows complete defiance,”
Additionally, the Court instructed the Commission for Air Quality Management to hold Haryana government officials accountable for failing to act against violators.
Delhi air pollution is a persistent environmental issue that typically worsens during the winter months, leading to hazardous air quality levels. Key factors contributing to the problem include:
- Vehicular Emissions: A high density of vehicles in the city contributes significantly to air pollution, with emissions from cars, trucks, and buses releasing pollutants like nitrogen oxides and particulate matter.
- Construction Activities: Ongoing construction and infrastructure development release dust and other particulate matter into the air, exacerbating pollution levels.
- Industrial Emissions: Industries located in and around Delhi emit various pollutants, adding to the overall air quality degradation.
- Burning of Biomass and Waste: The practice of burning agricultural waste, particularly in nearby states like Punjab and Haryana, releases a large amount of smoke and particulate matter into the atmosphere, significantly affecting Delhi’s air quality.