Will the Supreme Court Address the Air Pollution Crisis Tomorrow?
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Synopsis
As air quality in Delhi-NCR reaches alarming levels, the Supreme Court is set to resume hearings on a public interest litigation addressing the crisis. With stubble burning and stagnant weather exacerbating conditions, this session could lead to vital government actions.
Key Takeaways
- Supreme Court to continue hearing on air pollution crisis.
- Delhi-NCR faces severe pollution levels.
- Stubble burning and stagnant weather are major contributors.
- Governments of Punjab and Haryana directed to report on actions taken.
- Potential penalties discussed for crop residue burning.
New Delhi, Nov 16 (NationPress) The Supreme Court is scheduled to continue its proceedings on Monday regarding the public interest litigation (PIL) related to the alarming levels of air pollution in the national capital and surrounding regions.
The hearing is crucial due to ongoing stubble burning and stagnant weather that have pushed the air quality in Delhi-NCR into the "severe" category.
According to the cause list available on the Supreme Court's official website, a Bench comprising Chief Justice of India (CJI) B.R. Gavai along with Justices K. Vinod Chandran and N.V. Anjaria will resume the discussion on November 17.
During the last session on November 12, the CJI Gavai-led panel expressed alarm regarding the worsening air quality, despite the implementation of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), and instructed the governments of Punjab and Haryana to submit comprehensive affidavits detailing the actions taken to mitigate stubble burning.
The Supreme Court acknowledged claims indicating that the Air Quality Index (AQI) had exceeded 450 in multiple locations across Delhi-NCR.
Senior advocate Gopal Sankaranarayanan noted that even standard construction activities, including drilling work near the Supreme Court premises, were ongoing despite hazardous air quality. "For the next few days, such activities should cease," Sankaranarayanan advised the court.
Additionally, senior advocate Aparajita Singh, serving as amicus curiae, highlighted inconsistencies in official pollution statistics and cautioned that the situation was becoming increasingly perilous.
The CJI Gavai-led Bench, which has been closely monitoring this issue, previously requested a report from the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) regarding its oversight and enforcement strategies. The court even urged the Centre to contemplate imposing strict penalties, including arrests, to discourage farmers from burning crop residue.
Recently, Supreme Court Justice P. S. Narasimha encouraged lawyers to avoid in-person appearances and instead utilize virtual hearings, warning that Delhi's toxic air poses a risk of "permanent damage". "The situation is extremely serious! Why are you all appearing here?" Justice Narasimha remarked. "We have the virtual hearing facility available. Please make use of it. This pollution will cause lasting harm," he added.
Point of View
It is crucial to address the escalating air pollution crisis in Delhi-NCR. This issue transcends political boundaries and demands immediate action from the authorities. The Supreme Court's involvement signifies the gravity of the situation, and it is imperative that effective measures are taken to protect public health and the environment.
NationPress
16/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the Supreme Court hearing?
The hearing addresses critical air pollution levels in Delhi-NCR, which have reached severe levels due to stubble burning and adverse weather conditions.
What measures are being discussed to combat pollution?
The Supreme Court is exploring government responses, including potential penalties for stubble burning and the need for stricter enforcement of pollution control measures.
How is the air quality currently in Delhi-NCR?
The Air Quality Index (AQI) has surpassed 450 in various locations, indicating a severe pollution crisis.
What actions have been initiated by the Punjab and Haryana governments?
Both state governments have been directed to submit affidavits detailing their efforts to reduce stubble burning and improve air quality.
What alternative solutions are being proposed?
The Supreme Court is encouraging the use of virtual hearings to minimize exposure to the hazardous air quality affecting Delhi.
