The Supreme Court criticized the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) for its lackadaisical approach towards the deteriorating air pollution crisis in Delhi-NCR. Expert institutions, including Indian Institutes of Technology, have provided conflicting data on pollution sources and their impact on the Air Quality Index (AQI). Despite various efforts, the air quality in the region remains persistently poor, according to the apex court.
The court highlighted its repeated interventions over time to address the issue, seeking expert opinions, but with minimal improvement on the ground. The CAQM was accused of sluggishness in identifying the causes behind the worsening AQI and formulating long-term solutions. The Supreme Court emphasized the need for the CAQM to gather experts to pinpoint pollution sources based on data-driven analysis.
In response to suggestions on vehicular pollution, industrial emissions, and other factors, the court directed the CAQM to organize a meeting of domain experts within two weeks. The commission was instructed to publish a report identifying major contributors to AQI deterioration for public scrutiny. The court also urged the CAQM to start planning and implementing long-term solutions without delay.
The apex court made it clear that it would closely monitor the situation, refusing to grant long adjournments. It stressed the importance of transparency and public involvement in addressing the air quality crisis in Delhi-NCR.
