Supreme Court Eases GRAP Curbs on Delhi NCR Air Pollution

In a significant move, the Supreme Court of India has allowed the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to ease air pollution measures in Delhi-NCR, downgrading the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) restrictions from Stage-4 to Stage-2. This decision comes after improvements in the region’s air quality, signaling a positive trend in combating Delhi NCR air pollution. The court, however, has instructed the CAQM to consider incorporating some additional Stage-3 measures as a precaution.

Air Quality Improves, Stage-2 Restrictions Activated

The Supreme Court, comprising Justices Abhay S. Oka and Augustine George Masih, reviewed the air quality data presented before them and acknowledged the improvement in the AQI levels in the Delhi-NCR region. The AQI had dropped below 300 in the past four days after consistently staying above 300 until November 30. The Court recognized this shift as significant, but cautioned that further monitoring is essential to address Delhi NCR air pollution effectively.

While permitting the CAQM to ease the restrictions to Stage-2, the bench emphasized that additional measures from Stage-3, such as curbing industrial activity and regulating vehicular emissions, should be considered if the AQI levels escalate again. In cases where the AQI surpasses 350, Stage-3 restrictions will be enforced, and if it crosses 400, Stage-4 measures will come into play, ensuring proactive action against Delhi NCR air pollution.

Need for Hybrid Restrictions and Monitoring

During the hearing, Aishwarya Bhati, Additional Solicitor General representing the CAQM, argued that the drop in AQI levels could be attributed to favorable weather conditions. Bhati further urged the court to adopt hybrid restrictions, combining measures from Stage-3 and Stage-4, to balance environmental needs and the livelihoods of citizens. She referenced previous data from November 2020 and January 2021, during the COVID-19 lockdown, showing that even with industries closed, AQI levels had breached the 350-mark, demonstrating the ongoing challenge of Delhi NCR air pollution.

Action Against Open Garbage Burning

The Court also discussed the persistent pollution in certain areas like Mundka, where AQI levels remain higher. Senior advocate Aparajita Singh, appointed as amicus curiae, highlighted the need to curb open garbage burning to prevent further pollution spikes. The Court called for a protocol to address this issue and stressed the importance of enforcing solid waste management rules established in 2016 to reduce the impact of Delhi NCR air pollution.

Future Monitoring and Enforcement

The Supreme Court has directed that court-appointed commissioners will begin inspections at Delhi’s entry points once Stage-3 restrictions are triggered. The Delhi government will provide compensation to these commissioners for their services. The next hearing is scheduled for December 12, where further directions will be issued to address the ongoing issue of Delhi NCR air pollution.

Conclusion: A Step Toward Sustainable Air Quality Management

While the Supreme Court has temporarily eased the restrictions, the decision underscores the importance of coordinated efforts between multiple stakeholders, including the Delhi government, Delhi police, and pollution control authorities. As Delhi NCR continues to face seasonal air quality challenges, the Court has emphasized the need for long-term solutions to tackle the root causes of Delhi NCR air pollution and promote a cleaner, healthier living environment for its residents.

By allowing flexibility in implementing the GRAP stages and emphasizing preventive measures like curbing open burning, the Court’s ruling serves as a crucial step in addressing air pollution without hampering daily life.

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