Delhi Air Quality Update: Supreme Court Approves Transition from GRAP-IV to GRAP-II Restrictions
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New Delhi, December 5 (NationPress) The Supreme Court has observed the positive changes in the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi and surrounding areas, granting permission for the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to reduce the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) from Stage-IV to Stage-II.
However, the bench, led by Justice Abhay S. Oka, stated that it would not be suitable to allow the CAQM to drop below GRAP-II restrictions at this point.
The court suggested that the CAQM might explore adding certain measures from Stage-III.
The bench, which also included Justice A.G. Masih, acknowledged the input from Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati regarding the AQI levels falling below 300 over the past four days.
The apex court instructed the CAQM to implement GRAP-III restrictions if AQI surpasses 350 and GRAP-IV measures if it exceeds 400 in the future.
It noted that AQI levels had remained above 300 until November 30, with recent improvements only occurring in the last four days.
The case is set for further consideration on December 12.
Previously, on Monday, the Supreme Court had declined to modify the enforcement of GRAP-IV measures.
Concerning the proposal for changes to the application of GRAP-IV, the court indicated it would hear the parties on this matter on December 5, 2024, at 3:30 p.m. and will assess the AQI levels to determine if there is a downward trend.
The court expressed concern over the observed “complete lack of coordination” among stakeholders such as the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, the Delhi government, the Delhi Police, and the Delhi Pollution Control Committee regarding the implementation of all GRAP measures. It emphasized the CAQM’s responsibility to coordinate the efforts of these entities to ensure effective enforcement of GRAP measures.
The Commission must facilitate the collaboration of all involved agencies and ensure that sufficient personnel are assigned at entry points.
