Delhi air pollution: SC refuses to relax GRAP IV regulations

The Supreme Court directed the Commission for Air Quality Management to decide latest by Tuesday morning on reopening educational institutions in the national capital.

The Court observed other GRAP IV restrictions cannot be relaxed until there is consistent improvement in Delhi’s air quality levels.  

Hearing pleas to curb pollution in the national capital and adjoining areas, the apex court came down heavily on authorities for not taking necessary measures to monitor the implementation of GRAP IV regulations after its order on November 23.

A bench comprising of Justices Abhay S. Oka and Augustine George Masih directed CAQM to consider relaxing restrictions related only to reopening educational institutions considering many students were dependent on mid-day meals.

The apex court observed that GRAP IV regulations cannot be relaxed until there is a consistent drop in AQI levels.

Considering the ban on construction work under GRAP IV, the Court directed states to utilise funds collected as labour cess to provide subsistence for affected labourers and daily wagers.

The apex court observed there was serious lapse from authorities regarding implementation of GRAP IV regulations.

It observed police personnel were deployed at several entry points only after its order on November 23.

The Court directed CAQM to take action against authorities for their lacklustre attitude.