‘Important to evaluate’: SC asks Centre to revisit Delhi air pollution action plan; big remark on farmers

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Monday advised the Centre and relevant authorities to re-examine their strategy for reducing air pollution in Delhi NCR to assess its effectiveness.

"Why don't you make a revisit to your action-plan to see for yourself that have you brought any effective changes? And if you have then are they less than what needed? We think it's important to evaluate, has any of your action plan has been proved to be effective or ineffective or less effective? Despite your hesitance, confidence, of whether you'd be able achieve effective change, is it not right to revisit action plan? Evaluation of steps you have taken so far", CJI Kant said, as quoted by ANI.




The court also questioned ASG Aishwarya Bhati, representing CAQM, about various factors besides stubble-burning that contribute to increased air pollution levels.

The court noted that it is unfair to solely blame farmers, who lack representation in these proceedings. The bench emphasised the importance of examining other scientific factors contributing to rising air pollution levels.

"Stubble-burning was happening as usual. Why could people see blue-skies 4-5 years ago. Why couldn't they see now?", SC said.

The court announced it would address the air pollution issue at least twice monthly. While acknowledging potential improvement after winter, the court expressed concern about the cyclical nature of this problem.

The next hearing is scheduled for December 10.
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