Delhi And the air quality situation of the National Capital Region (NCR) is becoming serious day by day. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court held an important hearing on the issue and made it clear that there will be no relaxation in the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)-IV measures until the pollution levels are brought under control. The court also clarified that relief from GRAP-IV measures will be given only after the pollution levels decline. The Supreme Court has called all the parties for the hearing of this case on December 5, in which the amendment of GRAP-IV will be discussed.
Negligence of officials in the eyes of Supreme Court
In this hearing of the Supreme Court, the negligence and tendency of officials to avoid responsibility came to light. The court reprimanded the officials and said, “Only when we call the top officials, the work starts.” This comment was for those cases where the authorities did not take the actions directed by the Supreme Court seriously. Specifically, the court took the authorities of Delhi, Rajasthan, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh to task and found that its direction to compensate the construction workers was not followed.
The Supreme Court directed the Chief Secretaries of these states to be present virtually on the next hearing day, so that further action can be taken in this matter.
Commissioners’ report reveals: Lack of coordination among officials
The Supreme Court took seriously the recent report of the Court Commissioners in this matter. The report revealed many shocking facts, such as there is a complete lack of coordination between the MCD (Municipal Corporation of Delhi), Delhi Police, Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) and other government officials. The court said that there is a need for better coordination between these institutions so that all the necessary measures can be completely followed.
The Supreme Court also directed that the Commission will have to take the responsibility of coordinating the activities of all these institutions. Further, the Court asked the Delhi Police to ensure that the members of the Bar, who are serving as Court Commissioners, continue to get proper security.
Danger of pollution: serious impact on health
The level of pollution in Delhi is continuously increasing, which is having a deep impact not only on the environment but also on the health of the people. Toxic smog and high levels of particulate matter (PM) have put people’s lives at risk. This situation is proving to be extremely dangerous for children, elderly and people suffering from respiratory diseases. According to experts, this problem can become more serious over time, if it is not taken under immediate control.
What steps have been taken by the government?
Delhi government and other concerned states have taken several steps to bring pollution under control. GRAP-IV includes a ban on entry of trucks in Delhi, a ban on construction work, and other measures to control pollution. However, there were many challenges in the implementation of these measures, which led to the intervention of the Supreme Court.
Importance of GRAP-IV: What is its purpose?
GRAP-IV is the fourth phase of the Graded Response Action Plan, which is implemented in case of severe pollution. Its main objective is to keep the dangerous levels of air pollution under control. Under this, many measures are implemented, such as prevention of construction works, reduction of pollution from transportation, and controlling pollution caused by power generation.
Supreme Court’s instructions on Delhi Police and security system also
The Supreme Court gave special instructions to the Delhi Police to ensure the safety of the members of the court bar. The court ordered that the members who are acting as court commissioners should get proper security so that their efficiency is not affected. This step has been taken to ensure the safety of officials and other concerned parties.
Solution to the problem of pollution: important initiatives
This serious problem cannot be solved by government measures alone. For this there is a need to actively involve every section of the society. Citizens will also have to make their own efforts to avoid pollution, such as reducing vehicle use, planting trees to increase greenery, and being aware of climate change.
This order of the Supreme Court makes it clear that strictness is necessary towards pollution control. Only if these measures are implemented properly, the residents of Delhi and NCR can get relief.
