SC laments air pollution in Delhi, directs 5 states to file affidavits on remedial efforts made by them

The Supreme Court on Tuesday noted that despite various efforts by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), air pollution in the national capital remains a significant problem, making it challenging to venture outside one's home.

The court directed the governments of Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan to file affidavits detailing the steps taken by them to curb air pollution.

A bench of Justices Sanjay Kishan Kaul, Sudhanshu Dhulia and Prashant Kumar Mishra noted that crop burning is one of the main reasons for air pollution in Delhi.

The court directed the five state governments to file affidavits within a week.

The bench pointed out that just a couple of decades ago, this was considered the best time for Delhi, but now the city is experiencing deteriorating air quality to the point where it's challenging to go outside.

The bench asked the five state governments to bring on record steps taken by them to redeem the position.

“We call upon the states of Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan to file an affidavit within a week," the bench said, fixing the matter for further hearing on November 7.

Additionally, the top court instructed the Commission for Air Quality to present a tabulated report showing the situation from when the problem began to the current conditions. This report should include details such as the Air Quality Index (AQI) and the number of farm fire incidents.

The Court asked CAQM to examine issues regarding the distribution of highly polluting petroleum coke, which is used by various industries. The court also sought a report from CAQM on the steps being taken to control air pollution in and around Delhi.

As the winter session approaches, the amicus curiae had raised concerns about severe air pollution and crop residue burning in the case. In response, the bench had promptly requested the commission to provide a report detailing the actions taken to address air pollution in and around the capital.