Supreme Court Declares Pollution a Health Emergency, Questions Governments Over Inaction
The court expressed deep concern over Delhi-NCR’s worsening air quality and called for urgent, effective measures.
The Supreme Court on Wednesday described the rising pollution levels in Delhi-NCR as a “health emergency” and strongly criticised the lack of effective action to control the deteriorating air quality.
During the hearing, amicus curiae Aparajita Singh informed the court that pollution levels in the region had reached extremely dangerous levels and should be treated as a public health crisis. She warned that both the lives and health of ordinary citizens were at serious risk.
Expressing grave concern, Chief Justice of India Surya Kant asked whether any judicial forum could magically solve the problem. “I know this is a dangerous time for Delhi-NCR. Tell us what order we can pass that will immediately ensure clean air for the people,” he said.
The CJI noted that pollution cannot be attributed to a single source and cannot be left solely to experts and scientists. He stressed the need to identify all contributing factors and develop region-specific solutions. He also said that the functioning of various government-appointed committees must be reviewed, and regular monitoring mechanisms must be strengthened.
CJI Surya Kant further remarked that the issue requires continuous hearings. He pointed out that pollution cases are often taken up only around Diwali, after which they disappear from the list. Continuous supervision and hearings, he said, are essential to ensure concrete and effective decisions.
The Supreme Court has scheduled the next hearing for December 1, during which it will examine both immediate and long-term measures to tackle the crisis.
