Today, On 17th September, The Supreme Court slammed states over rising air pollution and directed CAQM, CPCB, and state boards to prepare an action plan within three weeks, stressing urgent steps as winter approaches when pollution levels rise sharply in NCR.
Today, On 19th December, To tackle rising air pollution, the Supreme Court ordered states in the National Capital Region (NCR) to set up teams to enforce the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). The Court also instructed Uttar Pradesh and Haryana to ban firecrackers in the NCR to help lower pollution. These actions are meant to improve air quality and protect public health during times of high pollution. The decision highlights the need for NCR states to work together to address environmental issues.
Advocate Gopal Sankarnarayanan raised concerns about construction activities within the Supreme Court premises during a hearing on air pollution in Delhi. The court criticized the Delhi government for failing to enforce construction bans. Delhi’s air quality reached severe levels, prompting emergency measures, including school closures and construction pauses, to address the crisis.
Today, On 18th November, the Supreme Court mandated the continuation of Stage 4 anti-pollution measures in Delhi under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP IV) due to severe air quality. The court criticized the central air quality commission for delays and indicated it would not lower the measures even if the air quality improves.
The Environment Ministry is contemplating revising penalties for stubble burning, potentially increasing fines and compensation for farmers. Discussions with the Law Ministry aim to expedite changes without public consultation, prompted by Supreme Court criticism of past methods. Current regulations impose fines based on land size, amid worsening air quality during stubble burning season.
Today, On 16th October, The Supreme Court criticized Punjab and Haryana for failing to address Delhi’s air pollution crisis, mainly caused by stubble burning. It reprimanded the Commission for Air Quality Management for ineffectiveness and lack of qualified members. The court urged stricter actions against violators and highlighted the ongoing pollution challenges due to multiple factors.
Today, On 27th September, the Supreme Court criticized the Delhi Air Quality Panel for inadequate action on worsening air pollution in the National Capital Region (NCR). The court highlighted the critical role of stubble burning from nearby states and emphasized the need for proactive measures and accountability from the Commission for Air Quality Management.
Today, On 24th September, the Supreme Court of India expressed concern over stubble burning’s role in air pollution during a hearing focused on Delhi’s air quality. The Court demanded explanations from the Commission for Air Quality Management regarding enforcement actions against violators and reiterated the necessity of stopping stubble burning to improve air quality.
Today, On 27th August, The Supreme Court demanded an explanation from the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) regarding measures to tackle stubble burning and air pollution in northern India. It criticized the ineffectiveness of pollution control boards due to staff shortages and urged the states to fill vacant positions promptly. The court has scheduled further hearings on the matter for September 2.
