Delhi Faces Worst Air Quality Crisis: Supreme Court Enforces Strict Measures Under GRAP

Severe Air Pollution in Delhi

Delhi is facing a critical air pollution crisis, reaching ‘severe plus’ levels. The Supreme Court has intervened, instructing Delhi and nearby states—Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Punjab—to implement stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (Grap) immediately. This includes considering actions such as closing schools, allowing government and private employees to work from home, and shutting industries.

The Supreme Court ordered these measures to remain in effect until further notice, regardless of any drop in the Air Quality Index (AQI) below 401. On a recent day, the air pollution level peaked at 494, marking the highest severity in eight years and the second-worst recorded situation. At five PM, readings hit 500 at fifteen monitoring stations, leaving citizens struggling with severe discomfort from the toxic air.

The court criticized the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) for its delayed response. It called for immediate enforcement of measures as soon as the AQI exceeds 400, rather than waiting for air quality forecasts. Additionally, the court emphasized the necessity for the CAQM to incorporate stricter actions for stages III and IV of Grap, urging prompt action instead of a reactive approach.

A senior lawyer highlighted the necessity of closing all physical classes in schools. The court echoed this sentiment, directing states to cease physical classes up to the 12th grade promptly.

The UP government confirmed it has activated Grap IV measures starting Monday morning.

The Supreme Court also mandated states to set up grievance mechanisms for citizens to report violations of stage IV actions. Compliance with these directives is required by Thursday, with further hearings scheduled for November 22.