Supreme Court Alarms Over Delhi’s Toxic Air, Mandates Virtual Hearings
In a strong response to Delhi’s worsening air pollution crisis, the Supreme Court of India declared that “wearing masks is not enough” and ordered lawyers to attend hearings virtually to reduce exposure. The court labeled the situation “very serious” as Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) repeatedly crossed the ‘severe’ threshold.
Supreme Court’s Stern Directive
A bench led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud warned, “Pollution levels are dangerous, and mere advisories won’t suffice.” The court demanded affidavits from Delhi and neighboring states detailing steps taken to curb pollution. “People can’t rely on masks alone when the air is unbreathable,” the judges observed.
Why Virtual Hearings?
To protect lawyers, judges, and staff, the Supreme Court mandated video conferencing unless physical presence is essential. Legal experts praised the decision, calling it a necessary health precaution amid hazardous air quality.
Delhi’s Air Pollution Crisis: Causes & Failures
Delhi’s AQI has consistently exceeded 400, with PM2.5 levels 10x above WHO safety limits. Key culprits:
– Stubble burning in Punjab & Haryana
– Vehicle & industrial emissions
– Construction dust & waste burning
– Poor wind speed trapping pollutants
Despite the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), enforcement remains weak, and temporary fixes like odd-even schemes show little impact.
Public Health Emergency Declared
Hospitals report rising cases of asthma, bronchitis, and lung damage, especially in children and seniors. Dr. Arvind Kumar, a top lung surgeon, warned: “Breathing Delhi’s air equals smoking 30 cigarettes a day.”
Long-Term Solutions Needed
The Supreme Court’s push has spotlighted demands for:
1. Ban stubble burning + support farmers.
2. Boost public transport to cut vehicular emissions.
3. Punish polluting industries strictly.
4. Year-round anti-pollution measures (not just winter).
Final Takeaway
The Supreme Court’s intervention underscores that masks are no solution—Delhi needs urgent, systemic action. With millions gasping for clean air, will authorities finally act?
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