New Delhi: On October 10, 2023, the Supreme Court of India sought a report from the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on steps being taken to control air pollution in and around Delhi. The court’s order came in response to a plea seeking urgent measures to curb air pollution in the National Capital Region (NCR).
The court directed the CAQM to submit a report within two weeks on the current status of air quality in Delhi and the NCR, steps that have been taken so far to control air pollution, and steps that are planned to be taken in the future. The court also directed CAQM to note challenges that are being faced in controlling air pollution.
A bench of Justices Sanjay Kishan Kaul and Sudhanshu Dhulia noted the submissions of senior advocate Aparajita Singh, who is assisting the top court as an amicus curiae, directed the CAQM to hold a meeting with all stakeholders, including the governments of Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Punjab, to discuss the issue of air pollution.
The bench noted the amicus has flagged a “serious problem” of air pollution as the winter is approaching and crop residue will be burnt. Air pollution is a major problem in Delhi and the NCR, especially during the winter months. The city’s air quality often deteriorates to hazardous levels, posing a serious threat to public health.
The CAQM is a statutory body that was established in 2021 to improve air quality in Delhi and the NCR. The commission has the power to issue binding directions to all stakeholders, including the governments of the states in the region.
The Supreme Court’s order is a welcome step. It is important to hold the CAQM and other stakeholders accountable for taking effective measures to control air pollution.