Supreme Court Alarms Over Non-Functional Air Quality Monitors in Delhi
The Supreme Court has demanded urgent answers from the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) after its amicus curiae revealed multiple air monitoring stations in Delhi are malfunctioning. This critical lapse undermines efforts to combat the capital’s worsening pollution crisis.
Why Faulty Monitoring Stations Spell Disaster
- Data Reliability at Stake: CPCB and DPCC-managed stations provide inconsistent or no readings, skewing pollution assessments.
- GRAP Implementation Hampered: Inaccurate data delays emergency measures like traffic bans and construction halts under the Graded Response Action Plan.
- Judicial Rebuke: “How can policies be framed if monitoring fails?” asked Justice Kaul-led bench.
Delhi’s Pollution Emergency: A Systemic Failure
With PM2.5 levels routinely exceeding WHO limits by 10-15x, Delhi faces annual winter smog fueled by vehicles, industry, and stubble burning. The non-operational stations worsen the crisis by:
– Masking true pollution levels (e.g., “moderate” vs. “severe” AQI in adjacent areas).
– Delaying public alerts and protective measures.
SC Directives and Public Backlash
- CAQM Deadline: Submit a repair/replacement plan for defective stations.
- Activist Outrage: Groups like Warrior Moms call it “criminal negligence,” demanding audits and transparency.
- Expert Recommendations:
- Independent audit of all monitoring infrastructure.
- Live data access for citizens.
- Penalties for responsible agencies.
Next Steps in the Legal Battle
The Supreme Court adjourned the hearing, awaiting CAQM’s response. Meanwhile, Delhi residents brace for another toxic winter, as authorities scramble to restore monitoring credibility.
Key Quote: “Clean air is a fundamental right—not a privilege,” the bench asserted.
