Supreme Court to Hear Delhi-NCR Air Pollution Case on December 3, Says Issue Needs Regular Monitoring
The Supreme Court on Thursday agreed to hear all pending petitions related to the worsening air pollution crisis in Delhi-NCR on December 3. The court stressed that the issue cannot be taken up only during “ceremonial” periods such as Diwali and must be addressed through regular monitoring. The decision comes amid persistently poor air quality across the region and renewed concerns over public health.
Supreme Court Flags Seriousness of the Crisis
A bench headed by Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi took note of submissions made by senior advocate Aparajita Singh, who is assisting the court as amicus curiae in the air pollution matter. Singh highlighted the severity of the situation, describing it as a public health emergency affecting millions of residents.
The bench acknowledged the gravity of the crisis but said judicial directions alone cannot solve the issue unless supported by expert-driven, long-term strategies. The CJI stated that the court is aware of the hazardous conditions but stressed that solutions must come from specialists and relevant authorities.
Court Questions Practicality of Short-Term Measures
During the hearing, Chief Justice Surya Kant observed that the challenge is not a lack of understanding but the absence of comprehensive, sustainable interventions. He said the court cannot issue directions that promise immediate relief unless the underlying causes are identified and addressed by domain experts.
He added that the matter often returns to the court only during the festive season, while air pollution is a year-round concern. The bench emphasised that the situation demands consistent attention and not a seasonal response driven by spikes in pollution levels.
The court will examine the latest steps taken by central and state governments and review the role of committees already formed for air quality management.
Previous Directions on School Activities and GRAP Implementation
Earlier, on November 19, the Supreme Court had asked the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to consider postponing open-air sports activities in schools across Delhi-NCR for the months of November and December. The court expressed concern over children being exposed to toxic air during peak pollution periods.
The CAQM was instructed to reschedule such activities to months when the air quality is comparatively safer. At the same time, the court declined to impose year-round restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), noting that a uniform approach may not be effective.
On Wednesday, CAQM revoked GRAP Stage 3 restrictions after reporting a steady improvement in air quality. However, GRAP Stage 1 and Stage 2 restrictions remain in place across NCR.
Air Quality Still in ‘Very Poor’ Zone
Despite slight improvement, Delhi’s air quality continues to remain in the ‘very poor’ category. On Thursday morning, the Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 359. Levels above 300 are considered hazardous for sensitive groups and pose health risks for the general population, particularly children, the elderly and those with respiratory issues.
The winter season, low wind speeds, vehicular emissions, farm fires and industrial pollution continue to contribute to the region’s deteriorating air quality.
Court Seeks Long-Term, Expert-Driven Solutions
The Supreme Court reiterated that addressing Delhi-NCR’s pollution requires coordinated action between central authorities, state governments, environmental agencies and scientific experts. The bench said it will examine whether existing committees and mechanisms are effective or require restructuring.
The court also indicated the need for consistent reporting and data-based assessments through bodies like CAQM. It emphasised that the responsibility does not lie solely on enforcement agencies but must be shared across sectors, including transport, industry, agriculture and urban development.
Why This Matter Is Important
Delhi-NCR’s pollution crisis has become a recurring national challenge, affecting public health, daily life and environmental stability. The Supreme Court’s decision to take up the matter regularly highlights the need for structural reforms rather than temporary solutions. With winter conditions worsening air quality every year, sustainable changes in policy and behaviour have become essential.
Public health experts have repeatedly warned that prolonged exposure to toxic air increases the risk of respiratory illnesses, heart disease and other long-term ailments.
Final Thoughts from TheTrendingPeople.com
The Supreme Court’s decision to hold regular hearings on Delhi-NCR air pollution signals a shift toward continuous, long-term engagement with one of India’s most pressing environmental problems. Instead of seasonal interventions, the focus now moves to coordinated planning, expert guidance and sustainable solutions. The issue impacts millions across the region and requires joint action from governments, agencies and citizens. As air quality remains in the ‘very poor’ category, the upcoming hearing on December 3 will be crucial in assessing current measures and shaping future strategies. Consistent monitoring may help bring accountability and meaningful progress in tackling this crisis.
