Supreme Court Warns of "Permanent Damage" as Delhi's Air Quality Reaches Hazardous Levels

The Supreme Court has urged lawyers to attend hearings virtually as Delhi continues to struggle with severe air pollution.

New Delhi:

Delhi's air quality remains in the 'severe' category, prompting the Supreme Court to issue a stark warning about the health hazards posed by the toxic smog. During a recent hearing, the bench consisting of Justice PS Narasimha and Justice AS Chandurkar expressed serious concerns about the deteriorating environmental conditions.

"Why are you all appearing here? We have the virtual hearing facility. Please avail it. This pollution... this will cause permanent damage," Justice Narasimha remarked to attorneys present in the courtroom.

When Senior Advocate and Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal mentioned that they were using masks, Justice Narasimha emphasized that "Even masks are not enough. It will not suffice. We will discuss with the Chief Justice as well."

Multiple areas across the national capital recorded Air Quality Index readings exceeding 400, placing them in the 'severe' category. In response, authorities have implemented restrictions under the third phase of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to mitigate pollution levels.

GRAP-III measures include prohibiting most non-essential construction and demolition activities, restricting BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers, and implementing online classes for students up to Class 5.

The Supreme Court has requested status reports from the Punjab and Haryana governments regarding steps taken to address stubble burning, a significant contributor to Delhi's seasonal air pollution. Senior advocate Aparajita Singh, serving as amicus curiae, has previously highlighted inconsistencies in official AQI data. The court will revisit this matter on Monday.