Supreme Court demands action plan from four states over Delhi-NCR vehicle pollution

The Supreme Court of India has expressed deep concern regarding rising air pollution in the Delhi-NCR region, specifically highlighting the impact of vehicle emissions. A three-judge bench, led by Chief Justice Surya Kant and including Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana, has directed the governments of Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Rajasthan to submit formal responses within two weeks.

The court has requested detailed reports on measures taken to curb pollution from old and non-compliant vehicles, as well as adherence to Pollution Under Control (PUC) regulations. The bench noted that while stubble burning incidents have decreased, pollution from heavy commercial and private vehicles entering from neighboring states has become a critical issue.

In addition to state governments, the court has sought responses from the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and the Delhi Police. The bench also emphasized the need for the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to consider expert opinions, particularly regarding the health impacts on children.

Subsequent hearings are scheduled throughout late November to address specific issues, including crop residue burning on November 25, industrial and construction pollution on November 26, and the conservation of green zones on November 30.