Stage Four of the anti-pollution plan for Delhi and the National Capital Region, known as GRAP-IV measures, will remain in effect for the next 72 hours, according to a ruling by the Supreme Court.
This decision was made since the air quality in Delhi and the surrounding areas was classified as "very poor" on Friday morning, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 371.
Supreme Court's role in controlling anti-pollution measures
The court emphasised its control over potential adjustments to the anti-pollution measures. Justice Abhay S. Oka stated that the Supreme Court would assess the situation on Monday to decide if the restrictions under GRAP should be eased from Stage IV to Stage II.
The court intends to ensure compliance from the Delhi government before considering any changes.
Earlier this week, the Supreme Court ruled that GRAP-IV measures would remain in force even if the AQI in Delhi drops below 450.
The decision came after criticism of the Delhi government for not responding quickly enough to the worsening air conditions.
Criticism over delayed response
"Why did we wait for the AQI to exceed 300? How could such a risk be taken?" asked a panel of judges led by Justice Oka and Justice Augustine George Masih.
This statement came just days after the Delhi government hesitated to impose GRAP-III measures but eventually implemented them following a further decline in air quality.
Also Read: 50 pc of Delhi govt staff to work remotely due to smog
Firecracker ban and post-Diwali air crisis
The Supreme Court has been actively involved in overseeing Delhi's air quality each year, especially after the predictable post-Diwali spike in pollution. Despite the ban, many residents continue to burst firecrackers, contributing to a significant AQI drop.
In a recent hearing, the court criticised both the Delhi government and the police, stating that "no religion encourages any activity which creates pollution."
The judges labeled the enforcement of the firecracker ban as inadequate, calling the government's explanations "eyewash."
Impact on Delhi residents and measures taken
Over the past week, Delhi has been engulfed daily by thick layers of toxic smog, raising serious health concerns. Medical experts have issued repeated warnings about a likely rise in respiratory illnesses due to the pollution.
In response, the city has implemented several anti-pollution measures, including staggered office hours, online classes for educational institutions, and restrictions on older vehicles.
The Supreme Court's involvement underscores the severity of the Delhi air pollution crisis, as the city struggles to improve its air quality amidst an ongoing environmental and public health emergency.
Also Read: SC grills Delhi govt over trucks entry amid severe pollution
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