The Supreme Court of India has emphasized the need for a comprehensive, long-term strategy to tackle Delhi’s recurring air pollution crisis. Meanwhile, the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage IV measures will continue to be implemented to address the immediate air quality concerns in the National Capital Region (NCR).
Background:
Delhi has been grappling with hazardous air quality levels, primarily during the winter months. Factors such as vehicular emissions, industrial pollution, stubble burning, and unfavorable weather conditions contribute to the deterioration of air quality. GRAP IV, a stringent emergency-level protocol, includes measures like a ban on construction activities, entry restrictions on non-essential vehicles, and the closure of certain industries.
Court’s Rationale:
During the hearing, the Supreme Court stressed that temporary measures under GRAP, though necessary, are insufficient for sustainable improvement. The Court directed authorities to devise and implement a holistic plan to address the root causes of pollution, including industrial emissions, vehicular pollution, and agricultural practices. The bench reiterated that air pollution has severe health and economic repercussions, making urgent and coordinated action imperative.
Existing Measures:
The GRAP framework is a step-by-step plan to combat air pollution in the NCR, activated based on the Air Quality Index (AQI) levels. It includes interventions ranging from public advisories to halting major activities that contribute to pollution. However, experts have pointed out that these measures are reactive rather than preventive.
Conclusion:
The Supreme Court’s call for a long-term solution highlights the pressing need for systemic and proactive measures to combat air pollution. While GRAP IV addresses the immediate crisis, the focus now shifts to formulating and enforcing policies that ensure cleaner air and a healthier environment for the NCR in the future.