The Supreme Court on Saturday suggested a two day lockdown to bring down pollution levels caused due to stubble burning, vehicles, industries and firecrackers.
The CJI pointed towards the worsened condition of the air quality of Delhi due to pollution.
“The situation is very bad…in the house we are wearing masks. It is a bad situation.”
CJI asked Solicitor General Tushar Mehta about the ways by which the situation can be controlled.
“How to control air pollution in Delhi, two days lockdown or what. How will people live in Delhi?”
The bench of Chief Justice of India NV Ramana, Justices DY Chandrachud and Surya Kant expressed their concern regarding the poor air quality of Delhi. They said that the air quality of Delhi is in the “severe” category and will dip further in another 2-3 days.
“Tell us how we can reduce AQI from 500 at least by 200 points. Take some urgent measures. We will look at a long term solution later.”
The bench also questioned the Delhi Government about its decision to install smog towers and emission control projects.
The Supreme Court told the Government that it has opened all the schools in the capital city and now the lungs of children are exposed to pollution.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said that in a meeting today, government will focus on the emergency situation of air pollution.
The Supreme Court bench also criticised government for blaming farmers alone for the rising pollution levels in the city.
“Why are you projecting like the pollution is because of farmers? It is only certain percentage of pollution. What about the rest? What are you doing to control the pollution in Delhi?”
The Supreme Court has adjourned the hearing of the air pollution case till 15 November and enquired the Centte about the steps taken by it to control the pollution