Mon Nov 18 09:38:37 UTC 2024: ## Supreme Court Rebukes Delhi Government for Delayed Air Pollution Measures
**New Delhi, November 18, 2024** – The Supreme Court today reprimanded the Delhi government for its delayed implementation of stricter anti-pollution measures under Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage 4, as Delhi’s air quality remains in the “severe” category. The court emphasized that it will not permit any relaxation of these measures without prior approval.
The court’s action follows the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM)’s announcement on Sunday of stricter measures, including a ban on most trucks entering Delhi and a halt to construction on public projects, effective Monday morning. These measures were enacted after Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) soared to 457 on Sunday evening.
The Supreme Court bench expressed concern over the delay in invoking GRAP Stage 4, noting that its activation is mandated when the AQI reaches between 300 and 400. The court questioned the government’s rationale for delaying implementation despite alarming pollution levels. The bench made it explicitly clear that GRAP Stage 4 measures will remain in effect until further court order, even if the AQI subsequently falls below 450. The court will further hear the matter later today.
The hearing stems from a plea seeking directions to control air pollution in Delhi and surrounding areas. The Supreme Court previously affirmed that the right to breathe clean air is a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution. The court’s strong stance underscores its commitment to ensuring clean air for Delhi’s residents.
First Piper 