The Supreme Court has expressed strong dissatisfaction with the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) over its lack of action regarding the ongoing air pollution crisis in Delhi, particularly due to stubble burning in neighbouring states.
As pollution levels have worsened this week, the court took the opportunity to highlight the ineffectiveness of the panel, pointing out that no committees have been formed to address the pressing issue of crop burning.
During a recent session, the Supreme Court criticised the CAQM for its inaction, emphasising that year after year, stubble burning remains a significant contributor to the air quality problems in Delhi.
The court demanded to know what steps the commission had taken to comply with the CAQM Act. It highlighted that despite the existence of the commission, there had been no visible progress in tackling stubble burning. The judges labelled the CAQM as “silent spectators,” indicating their frustration with the lack of proactive measures.
In response to the court's inquiries, the chairperson of the CAQM mentioned that three subcommittees were meeting quarterly. However, the Supreme Court questioned how effective these meetings could be when held only once every three months.
The court's criticism underscores a broader concern about the commission's ability to address the ongoing air quality issues affecting Delhi and its surrounding regions.
The CAQM Act was established to improve coordination and to research and resolve air pollution-related problems in Delhi-NCR. The Supreme Court pointed out that while the act grants the commission significant authority, including the power to shut down polluting units, there have been minimal directions issued, and violations have gone largely unaddressed.
A senior advocate, serving as amicus curiae, noted that substantial financial support had been provided to farmers to acquire equipment aimed at preventing stubble burning. However, despite the financial incentives, the practice persists. The advocate emphasised the need for accountability, suggesting that specific officials should be held responsible for the ongoing failures.
The Supreme Court reiterated the need for the CAQM to take more aggressive actions to ensure that its initiatives translate into measurable improvements in air quality. The judges urged the panel to document the meetings it has held and the decisions it has made, emphasising the necessity of transparency in its operations.
As winter approaches, Delhi faces an annual air quality crisis, which often escalates to hazardous levels, particularly around the time of Diwali. The problem of stubble burning in the neighbouring states of Punjab and Haryana is a significant contributor to this environmental issue. The court’s remarks serve as a wake-up call for the CAQM to step up its efforts and take concrete actions to address the challenges of air pollution.
The ongoing situation calls for immediate attention and coordinated action among all stakeholders involved in air quality management. The Supreme Court’s admonition of the CAQM is a reminder of the urgent need for effective solutions to protect public health and ensure cleaner air for the residents of Delhi and its surrounding areas.
As discussions continue about the responsibilities of various government bodies, the focus must remain on practical measures that can lead to significant improvements in air quality.
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