Premium| Listen to this article |
The Supreme Court of India on Saturday thrashed both Centre and the Delhi government regarding the deteriorating air quality in the national capital Delhi. The apex court has asked the central government to prepare an emergency plan to improve the air quality in Delhi.
"Tell us how we can reduce AQI from 500 at least by 200 points. Take some urgent measures. Can you think of two days lockdown or something? How can people live?" Supreme Court told the Central government today
The Chief Justice of India NV Ramana said that air pollution is a serious situation, and said, " We have to wear the mask at home also". The apex court asked Cente, "what steps it has taken to tackle air pollution".
The Supreme Court said that there are two lakh machines available for stubble burning which farmers cannot afford it. Lashing on both Centre and Delhi government, it asked, "Why can't Centre/State govt provide these machines to farmers or take away the stubble?"
The court further observed that 'bashing the farmers has become a new fashion' while there are other reasons also for the poor air quality in the city.
"Stubble can be a part of the problem but not the only reason," the court said.
Emphasizing the health of children, the court criticized the Delhi government's decision of reopening the schools. "You have opened all schools in the national capital and now children are exposed to pollutants. This is not the Centre's but your jurisdiction. What is happening on that front?," the SC said.
"Little children have to go to school in this weather, we are exposing them to this. Dr. Guleria (AIIMS) said we are exposing them to pollution, pandemic, and dengue," the court added.
The court has asked Centre to immediately improve the pollution level in the national capital in another 2-3 days. " Take an emergency decision. We will look at a long-term solution later," SC added.
Supreme Court posted for November 15, the hearing on the plea, and asked the Centre to inform it about the steps taken to control air pollution.
Never miss a story! Stay connected and informed with Mint. Download our App Now!!