New Delhi: Even after a week of plunging into severe air quality index, Delhi is yet to get relief. God bless lungs, the Delhi government has announced a few fresh measures that include shifting offices to a hybrid mode, ban on vehicles carrying construction materials, and a mandatory PUC certificate. These new measures will take effect on Thursday, in addition to the GRAP-4 restrictions announced by the Commission for Air Quality Management.
In a series of actions taken, Chief Justice Surya Kant today expressed displeasure over toll plazas for letting vehicles jam in Delhi to collect toll. Taking a tough stance on pollution, the Supreme Court has directed the MCD to relocate toll booths and asked for a decision within a week. The court also suggested that the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) could alternatively collect tolls and give a portion of the proceeds to the MCD. During the hearing, the court expressed displeasure with the MCD, remarking, “If revenue is the only concern, then tomorrow you will start collecting tolls in Connaught Place as well.” The court clarified that pollution control is a priority, and toll-related congestion is a major cause.
During the hearing, the court was informed of the major issues contributing to the rising pollution in Delhi-NCR. The MCD toll plazas located at the Delhi-Gurugram border were cited as significant contributors. The court was informed that these toll plazas cause hours-long traffic jams, and that the continuous emission of smoke from cars, bikes, and other vehicles parked on the road for extended periods of time significantly contributes to pollution.
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