Mon Dec 15 06:42:47 UTC 2025: Summary:
The Supreme Court of India will hear a plea on December 17, 2025, concerning the worsening air pollution in Delhi-NCR. The court acknowledged the poor implementation of existing preventative measures by authorities. Concerns were also raised about schools holding outdoor sports activities despite previous orders prohibiting them. The air quality in Delhi remains in the “severe” category with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 498, making it the most polluted day this winter and the second-worst December air quality day on record. The Court also discussed the disproportionate suffering of poor laborers due to pollution and stressed the need for solutions that can be enforced.
News Article:
Delhi Chokes Under “Severe” Pollution, Supreme Court to Hear Plea on Worsening Air Quality
New Delhi – December 15, 2025 – The Supreme Court announced today that it will hear a plea on December 17 regarding the alarming levels of air pollution plaguing Delhi-NCR. This announcement comes as Delhi residents continue to battle a thick blanket of smog, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) soaring to 498, categorized as “severe.”
During the hearing, senior advocate Aprajita Singh, acting as amicus curiae, highlighted the critical issue of poor implementation of existing pollution control measures by authorities. She stated that compliance only occurs upon direct orders from the court.
The bench also addressed concerns about schools defying previous orders by conducting outdoor sports activities, further endangering children’s health.
Chief Justice Surya Kant acknowledged the problem and stressed the need for enforceable solutions, recognizing the disproportionate suffering of poor laborers affected by the hazardous air quality. “We know the problem and let us pass orders which can be complied with…But the poor…,” said CJI Kant.
The air quality has reached alarming levels, with Jahangirpuri recording the worst AQI at 498. According to the Central Pollution Control Board, an AQI above 401 falls within the “severe” category, posing significant health risks. Sunday saw Delhi’s most polluted day this winter and the second-worst December air quality day on record.
The Supreme Court has previously stated that the case on air pollution should not be treated as a customary winter issue and will now be addressed twice a month to identify both short and long-term solutions. The Court plans to issue orders to ensure compliance and alleviate the city’s ongoing air pollution crisis.
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