Lockdown to be imposed in Delhi to tackle air pollution: Supreme Court

The Supreme Court questioned the Delhi administration on Saturday about whether emergency measures, such as a lockdown for a few days, were necessary to combat rising air pollution in the national capital. The decreasing air quality had forced individuals to wear masks even at home, said a bench chaired by Chief Justice of India N V Ramana.

According to Bar and Bench, the CJI added, "You see how bad the situation is....even in our houses, we are wearing masks." According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research, Delhi's air quality was'severe' on Saturday morning, measuring 499 on the Air Quality Index (AQI) (SAFAR).

The supreme court adjourned the case till November 15 (Monday), requesting the Delhi government's response on pollution-control measures.

Authorities have recommended that government and private offices, as well as other businesses, restrict vehicle usage by at least 30% and minimise outside activities. The warning was issued after the AQI reached 471 on Friday, the highest level in the'severe' category. This is worse than the AQI of 462 that was measured on November 5, the day after Diwali.