#supreme court on delhi pollution

[rightnewshindi]

यूपी के गुंडा एक्ट से हो रहा पुलिस और न्यायिक प्रक्रिया का दुरुपयोग, सुप्रीम ने की यह बड़ी टिप्पणी

Delhi News: सुप्रीम कोर्ट ने बुधवार को कहा कि उत्तर प्रदेश का गुंडा और गैर सामाजिक गतिविधि रोकथाम कानून बहुत सख्त है। न्यायमूर्ति बीआर गवई और न्यायमूर्ति केवी विश्वनाथन की पीठ ने एक याचिका पर सुनवाई करते हुए ये बात कही। दरअसल इलाहाबाद उच्च न्यायालय ने मई 2023 में गुंडा एक्ट के तहत लंबित कार्यवाही रोकने की मांग वाली एक याचिका खारिज कर दी थी। इस पर याचिकाकर्ता ने सुप्रीम कोर्ट का रुख किया था। अब…

[oberoilawchambers]

SUPREME COURT UPHOLDS BAN ON FIRECRACKERS FOR A POLLUTION-FREE DIWALI: A LEGAL PERSPECTIVE

The Supreme Court has announced that upholding the ban on the sale and use of firecrackers across the country.

The Supreme Court has announced that upholding the ban on the sale and use of firecrackers across the country has far-reaching implications, not only for public health and environmental protection but also for legal precedent and the interpretation of fundamental rights. The court’s ruling, which was first imposed in 2018, has been challenged by several petitioners, but the court has reaffirmed its position, citing the well-documented health and environmental hazards associated with fireworks. The court emphasized that the right to celebrate Diwali does not supersede the fundamental right to clean air and a healthy environment.

LEGAL STATUS QUO

It must be noted that bursting crackers lead to a violation of Fundamental rights along with the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981; The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986; and The Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000. regulations. The decision has significant legal implications, not only for the regulation of firecrackers but also for the interpretation of fundamental rights and the application of environmental protection laws. The court’s ruling sets a strong precedent for future cases involving conflicts between individual rights and environmental protection.

The decision also highlights the importance of scientific evidence in informing legal decisions. The court’s reliance on scientific studies on the health and environmental impacts of firecrackers demonstrates the importance of evidence-based policymaking.

Moreover, the court’s decision has far-reaching implications for environmental jurisprudence in India. The court’s recognition of the right to a clean environment as a fundamental right and its emphasis on the precautionary principle and polluter pays principle have strengthened the legal framework for environmental protection in the country.

The Supreme Court’s decision is a major victory for public health and environmental protection. Firecrackers are a major source of air pollution, particularly in urban areas. They release harmful pollutants such as particulate matter and sulfur dioxide, which can cause respiratory problems, heart disease, and other health problems.

In addition, firecrackers can cause noise pollution, which can disrupt sleep, increase stress levels, and even cause hearing loss. The Supreme Court’s decision will help to reduce air and noise pollution and improve the overall quality of life for millions of Indians.

CASE LAWS SUPPORTING THE BAN

The Supreme Court’s decision is grounded in a strong foundation of case law that has established the importance of environmental protection and the fundamental right to clean air. Key case laws supporting the ban include:

Arjun Gopal vs. Union of India (2018): In this landmark case, the Supreme Court recognized the right to a clean environment as a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution. The court also emphasized the precautionary principle, which states that even in the absence of scientific certainty, if there is a risk of serious or irreversible harm to the environment, precautionary measures must be taken.

M.C. Mehta vs. Union of India (1987): This case established the principle of polluter pays, which holds that the polluter must bear the cost of pollution. The principle has been applied to various industries, including the firecracker industry.

Vellore Citizens Forum vs. Union of India (2011): In this case, the Supreme Court recognized the right to a healthy environment as a part of the right to life under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution. The court also emphasized the need for environmental impact assessments to prevent pollution.

BALANCING THE FUNDAMENTAL RIGHTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL

The Supreme Court’s decision is also a significant development in the interpretation of fundamental rights. The court recognised that the right to celebrate Diwali is a fundamental right, but it is not absolute. The court held that the right to celebrate Diwali must be exercised in a manner that does not infringe upon the fundamental right to clean air and a healthy environment.

This decision is a reminder that all rights must be exercised in a responsible manner. The right to celebrate Diwali does not give individuals the right to harm the environment or the health of others. The Supreme Court’s decision is expected to have a significant impact on future cases involving conflicts between individual rights and environmental protection. The court’s ruling sets a strong precedent for future cases and will likely be cited in many future legal challenges.

The decision is also a reminder that the courts have a crucial role in protecting the environment. The courts can use their power to enforce environmental laws and regulations and to hold individuals and businesses accountable for their actions.

CONCLUSION

The Supreme Court’s decision to uphold the ban on firecrackers is a landmark ruling that prioritizes public health and environmental protection while upholding fundamental rights. The decision is a testament to the court’s commitment to upholding the Constitution and ensuring the well-being of all citizens.

By upholding the ban, the court has sent a clear message that public health and environmental protection are paramount. The decision is expected to have a significant impact on air quality during Diwali, particularly in urban areas, and contribute to a healthier environment for all.

Tammana Bahl Oberoi Law Chambers Contact Us

[todayworldnews2k21]

Delhi air pollution: Supreme Court says GRAP-IV measures to continue till December 2 except for schools and colleges 

Anti-smog gun being used to sprinkle water to curb pollution in New Delhi on November 28, 2024. | Photo Credit: Shashi Shekhar Kashyap The Supreme Court on Thursday (November 28, 2024) said that the graded response action plan, GRAP-IV, measures in Delhi will continue till Monday (December 2, 2024) except for schools and colleges. The top court also said that the Commission for Air Quality…

[world-of-wales]

I was looking into where COP is going it be hosted because it can tie in to earthshot, and of course Brazil is next year. COP31 (2026) is likely to be in Australia which is also a strong contender for earthshot, India is bidding for COP33 in 2028….

My reasoning on a potential Indian Earthshot is below this.

India better stay away from cop33 & Earthshot, especially after their latest 'achievements' in the conservation sector. The govt is fantastic in making bold claims but in reality, can't do shit. And I for one don't want william anywhere near that dumpster fire of hypocrites.

There's so many examples of their sheer incompetence, there's a polluted river in india - yamuna. Between 2017 - 2021 (or 22) I believe more than ₹6,800 crores of taxpayer money was spent on cleaning that death trap and it still is as dirty as it was when all this first began. There's actual toxic foam of ammonia and phosphates that floats around it 24/7.

Then just this week news came out that 25 Tigers, (which are an endangered species btw and also part of a very ambitious conservation project 'Project Tiger' started in 1973) have been untraceable from a state run national park for the past year. The only reason this came out was because another tiger was found dead from that forest.

And just yesterday, it came out that 10 elephants died in another state run park last month because they were fed...fungal infected millets.

Heck, Delhi? The capital? It's consistently been one of the most polluted cities of the world for years. It's a literal gas chamber, which gets the worst around the current time coz of various issues. Now diwali falls around this time and because of the air quality, the Indian supreme court banned any sort of crackers/fireworks to be burnt in the area? Sounds amazing right? But guess what since crackers have come to be associated with Diwali which is a hindu festival. So the members of the ruling party within their agenda have turned this ban into an attack on religion and consistently provoke their supporters on this ground urging them to burn crackers and make delhi insufferable for all.

This is just 4 examples, there's so many that if I start listing them, we'll be here for a long time.

Moreover, the current ruling party will only twist the visit to fill into their own agenda of hate mongering & political capital as they have been known to do with every such visit.

Also the govt quite literally cordoned off low income neighborhoods that fell on route of the attendees in Delhi with plastic barriers and police personnel during the G20 in 2023, to make sure no world leader saw anything other than the rosy picture they were putting out.

Now imagine what would happen in case of something like COP33. Ofc they would do similar repulsive things then also and imagine how harmful being attached to something like this with a potential Earthshot will be for William and his public image!

I would love for him to come here, Earthshot is such a fabulous initiative, and there's such a booming environmental startup sector in India like Phool (I personally am aware of their situation. My mum's cousin runs a marketing firm and she's the one who handles everything for them, and she's told me so much about how Earthshot has helped them since 2022 with linking them to investors, other similar businesses, exposure etc) or Kheyti etc etc which deserve to be highlighted.

But in the past 10 years buisness and government have become so intrinsically linked in india that no matter what the ruling party will hijack the contributions of these organizations like they do.

So yeah maybe I'm being a narrow minded idiot but Earthshot in India rn? Will only lead to credibility issues.

Now let's hope I don't go to jail for putting all this here by exercising my fundamental right under Article 19(1)(a).

[mariacallous]

Five years since Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government stripped Jammu and Kashmir of its autonomous status, the central government’s iron-fisted approach to the region has left it more vulnerable to regional and geopolitical threats.

While Kashmir Valley, which has withstood the brunt of armed insurgency since 1989, continues to simmer with militancy-related violence, the theater of terrorism has now extended into the otherwise peaceful province of Jammu. Since 2019, at least 262 soldiers and 171 civilians have died in more than 690 incidents, including the February 2019 Pulwama terrorist attack. The unsustainable and disproportionate loss of lives underscores the risks to both regional stability and India’s national security.

In 2019, the Modi government revoked Article 370 of the Indian constitution, which granted the state of Jammu and Kashmir its special status, annihilating the contested region’s symbolic autonomy. Concurrently, the central government also imposed an indefinite curfew in the region and used internet shutdowns and arrests to control and suppress the local population. The result was a transformed landscape. Already scarred by militarization, Kashmir became enmeshed in barbed wire.

This undemocratic exercise, though later stamped and endorsed by India’s Supreme Court, has since spurred further legal changes. For example, the local population no longer has access to exclusive protections that previously allowed only permanent residents of Jammu and Kashmir to apply for government jobs and buy property in the state.

In March 2020, the government repealed 12 and amended 14 land-related laws, introducing a clause that paved the way for a development authority to confiscate land and another that allowed high-ranking army officials to declare a local area as strategically important.

Local residents are appalled at the ease with which government agencies can now seize both residential and agricultural lands in the name of development and security—enabling mass evictions and the bulldozing of houses that are disproportionately affecting Muslim communities and small landowners.

Meanwhile, the ecological fallout from introducing massive road and railway networks, coupled with the addition of mega hydroelectricity projects, is polluting riverbeds and causing villages to sink. Since 2019, there has been a lack of local representation which could act as a buffer against massive development projects, most of which now fall under New Delhi’s governance. Meanwhile, the region’s unemployment rate, as of 2023, remains high at above 18 percent, as compared to the national average of 8 percent.

Over the last few years, the Modi government has also squashed dissent in the region by redirecting the military to maintain surveillance and control of the civilian population. According to the Forum for Human Rights in Jammu and Kashmir, over 2,700 people were arrested in the region between 2020 and 2023 under India’s contentious Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and the Public Safety Act. Those arrested include journalists like Fahad Shah and Sajad Gul, human rights defenders like Khurram Pervez, and prominent lawyers like Mian Qayoom and Nazir Ronga.

Modi’s repressive policies have deepened the trust deficit between Kashmiris and the Indian government. The top-down administration has further sidelined local bureaucrats and police officers, further widening the gap between the central government and local ground realities.

All of this has not only pushed the local population into distress, but also jeopardized India’s already fragile relations with its two nuclear neighbors, Pakistan and China.

The Kashmir conflict, rooted in the 1947 partition of India, has led to three major wars and several military skirmishes between India, Pakistan, and China. And though the region has always been contentious—India controls more than half of the total land, while Pakistan controls 30 percent, and China holds the remaining 15 percent in the northeast region near Ladakh—Modi’s aggressive handling has further provoked its neighbors.

Following the revocation of Article 370, the region was split into two separate union territories—Jammu and Kashmir forming one and Ladakh forming another, with both falling under the central government’s control.

This redrawing of the region’s internal borders, which signaled New Delhi’s assertions of reclaiming the Chinese-occupied territory near Ladakh—as well as India’s increasing tilt towards the United States—resulted in a deadly clash between India and China in 2020 and another one in 2022. Despite diplomatic efforts to resolve tensions over the disputed Himalayan border, New Delhi has accused Beijing of carrying out “inch by inch” land grabs in Ladakh since 2020.

Meanwhile, Pakistan-administered Kashmir has been rocked by mass protests of its own this year, owing to the country’s political and economic crisis, exacerbated in part by the abrogation of Article 370. Those living in Pakistan-administered Kashmir fear that Pakistan may similarly try to dilute the autonomy of the region.

With refugees flooding in from Afghanistan on its west amidst Imran Khan’s standoff with the Pakistani Army, Islamabad has been on edge and looking for diversionary tactics. The deepening of Pakistani-Chinese relations, including military ties, has contributed to a volatile mix.

But Kashmir’s vulnerability has worsened partly because of India’s own tactical blunders, too. The last decade witnessed a spurt in home-grown militancy, but since 2019 the landscape has been dominated by well-trained militants from across the Pakistani border who have access to sophisticated weapons and technology.

Indian security forces, including paramilitaries and the local police, have turned a blind eye to these emerging threats, especially in the twin districts of Rajouri and Poonch along the border with Pakistan. It is in this area that the impact of terror attacks has been most felt.

The region is home to the nomadic Gujjar-Bakerwal communities and the ethnolinguistic Paharis. These groups are parts of divided families straddling the India-Pakistan border, and this shared cultural linkage between the Indian and Pakistani sides has been weaponized in the past by intelligence networks of both countries.

The Indian armed forces have historically relied on the Gujjar-Bakerwal communities for intelligence gathering in part because of their nomadic lives and deep knowledge of the region’s topography. However, since 2019, the evictions of nomads from forest lands, following the amendment of several land-related laws, as well as affirmative actions for Paharis, a rival ethnic group, have led to the disenchantment of the Gujjar-Bakerwals—and an eventual loss of traditional intelligence assets for India.

Another blunder has been the redeployment of troops from Jammu to the border with China in the northeast, following China’s incursions in Ladakh’s Galwan Valley in 2020. This has left Jammu dangerously exposed to militants who have been infiltrating the region from across the line of control on the western side and carrying out their operations with a fair degree of success.

In 2024 alone, Jammu has witnessed numerous attacks which have resulted in the deaths of 16 soldiers and 12 civilians. In June, for example, the region experienced one of its deadliest attacks when militants opened fire on a bus carrying Hindu pilgrims, killing nine and injuring over 30.

Kashmir’s internal politics has the potential to spill over and push the region into disaster. While India has made some significant strides in international diplomacy under Modi, it tends to neglect the neighborhood where the risks to India’s national security remain the highest. Its diplomatic engagement with China comes in fits and starts but diplomacy with Pakistan remains nonexistent, despite the resumption of a ceasefire in 2021. And while India considers the removal of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status an internal matter, Pakistan sees it as a provocation. All in all, there is a dangerous lack of engagement between the two nuclear rivals in South Asia.

In theory, the ongoing regional elections in Jammu and Kashmir provide a glimmer of opportunity for the people to choose their own local government for the first time in a decade. However, irrespective of who wins the elections, the local leaders will lack the power to enact meaningful change, given that the region remains under the control of New Delhi following its demotion from a state to two union territories.

For instance, Ladakh does not have a legislative assembly, and while Jammu and Kashmir have an elected assembly, the real powers are vested in the hands of a governor, who was appointed to lead the region by the Modi-led central government. As recently as July, the Indian government ruled to further expand the governor’s oversight powers, delivering a blow to local politicians and voters.

Much more needs to be done to change the status quo. Though it remains unlikely, New Delhi must consider meaningful solutions that could assuage some of the political wounds inflicted by the complete erosion of Jammu and Kashmir’s autonomy, including, for example, the restoration of statehood to the region. In order to win back the trust of Kashmiris, the Indian government must reinstate civil liberties and deliver on its promise to provide economic development and jobs.

To improve the region’s safety, Indian agencies must acknowledge their security lapses and repair their broken intelligence networks. And while the Indian security forces must not lower their guard against terrorist activities, terrorism should not be proffered as an excuse when it comes to the normalization of relations in the neighborhood.

Neither Pakistan, nor India can afford the war which is looming over their heads. Diplomatic negotiations, including over Kashmir, must begin with a sense of urgency.

[odnewsin]

SC to hear pollution cases related to Delhi, other cities today

New Delhi: The Supreme Court will expand its focus on air pollution to other cities in India during a hearing scheduled for Thursday. A Bench led by Justice Abhay S. Oka has sought details from the Central government about the country’s most polluted cities, indicating that the issue will be addressed in phases. This follows proceedings that were held December 16, where the Division Bench of…

[bhaskarlive]

Delhi pollution: SC agrees to relax GRAP-IV restrictions, says can’t go below GRAP-II at this stage

Taking note of the improving Air Quality Index (AQI) levels in Delhi and adjoining areas, the Supreme Court on Thursday permitted the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to ease the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage-IV restrictions to GRAP Stage-II.

Source: bhaskarlive.in

[deshbandhu]

Supreme Court ne di Delhi mai vayu pradushaṇ se nipaṭane ke upayon mai sashart ḍhil ki anumati

उच्चतम न्यायालय ने राष्ट्रीय राजधानी क्षेत्र में गंभीर स्तर के वायु प्रदूषण से निपटने के उपायों में कुछ शर्तों के साथ ढील देने गुरुवार को अनुमति दे दी।

न्यायमूर्ति अभय एस ओका और न्यायमूर्ति ऑगस्टीन जॉर्ज मसीह की पीठ ने वायु गुणवत्ता प्रबंधन आयोग (सीएक्यूएम) की गुहार पर ग्रेडेड रिस्पांस एक्शन प्लान (जीआरएपी) के चरण-4 से 2 तक नीचे जाने की अनुमति दी। Click to Read More: https://www.deshbandhu.co.in/vichar/supreme-court-allows-conditional-relaxation-in-measures-to-tackle-air-pollution-in-delhi-520607-2

[hindustanmorning]

In the Delhi pollution case, court commissioners claim threats, and the bench responds.

New Delhi: The Supreme Court today slammed Delhi and other National Capital Region states for failing to pay an allowance to laborers when building activities were halted owing to air pollution, saying it has observed that the ball only begins rolling when top authorities are summoned. “We discovered that none of the nine National Capital Region States have followed our directive to pay…

[indiaweekly24]

Supreme Court Urges Action as Delhi Faces Toxic Air Crisis

The Supreme Court has demanded urgent steps to combat Delhi's hazardous air pollution levels. Highlighting health risks, the court called for strict measures against stubble burning, industrial emissions, and vehicular pollution. Authorities are urged to act swiftly to improve air quality and protect public well-being.

Read the detailed report here:

[rightnewshindi]

दिल्ली-एनसीआर में लागू रहेगा ग्रैप-4, सुप्रीम कोर्ट ने दी स्कूल खोलने की छूट; जानें अदालत ने क्या कहा

Delhi Pollution News: दिल्ली-NCR में फिलहाल ग्रैप-4 ही लागू रहेगा। सुप्रीम कोर्ट ने सोमवार को कहा कि जब तक अदालत इस बात को लेकर संतुष्ट नहीं हो जाती कि एक्यूआई में लगातार गिरावट है, हम स्टेज 3 या 2 में नहीं जा सकते हैं। हालांकि, कोर्ट ने स्कूलों को लेकर नरमी बरतते हुए कमिशन फॉर एयर क्वॉलिटी मैनेजमेंट (सीएक्यूएम) को इस पर फैसला लेने को कहा है। सुप्रीम कोर्ट ने सीएक्यूएम को तुरंत यह विचार करने को…

[venkateshwara-group1998]

Shri Venkateshwara University held a seminar focused on the judiciary’s role in reducing environmental pollution in the country.

The School of Law at Shri Venkateshwara University/Institute hosted a national seminar on the topic of Judicial Activism on Environmental Imbalance in India.

Over a dozen legal experts & environmentalists from Delhi, Lucknow, Bengaluru, Chandigarh, Uttrakhand & other parts voiced concern regarding the deteriorating pollution problem in the country.

They unanimously agreed that until & unless every citizen contributes their part in curbing environmental pollution, this problem cannot be resolved.

The Venkateshwara Group Founder President Dr Sudhir Giri, Pro Chancellor Dr Rajeev Tyagi, CG & Head of Central Law University Jurist Dr SK Chadda & Senior Advocate of Supreme Court Dr Vivek Singh inaugurated the event by lighting a lamp to Goddess Saraswati.

Environmentalist & Dean Environmental Law at Gurukul Kangri University Prof. JK Mata, Senior Advocate Consumer Affairs Dr Gopal Narsen, VC Dr Krishna Kant Dave & Dr Madhu Chaturvedi joined them to unveil the Judicial Activism on Environmental Imbalance in India seminar.

The Venkateshwara Group Founder President Dr Sudhir Giri reiterated stopping uncontrolled exploitation of nature & curbing environment pollution is not the sole responsibility of the Government or judiciary but of every citizen.  

The Chief Guest Dr. SK Chadda asserted the AQI has become so severe in metros, especially Delhi NCR that forget working, business or studies, even breathing has become difficult.

The situation is so critical that the Supreme Court had to step in & ordered the immediate closure of educational institutions & revived online classes for the learners.

The situation is like Lockdown & we all are liable for this critical situation. Until & unless we join hands to conserve nature, the situation will get compounded in coming times.

If we do not act now, then we will face unprecedented circumstances

If every responsible citizen plants enough trees, conserves water, prevents illegal tree cutting & environmental degradation, then the Judiciary will not need to interfere in nature conservation.

Dr SK Chadda is a renowned Jurist & HOD BR Ambedkar Central Law University, Lucknow.

The Pro Chancellor Dr Rajeev Tyagi affirmed let’s plant enough trees to turn Earth green and contribute our part to realize the honourable PM’s dream of a Clean India Green India.

Renowned Environmentalist Dr GK Mata, Advocate Dr Vivek Singh of Supreme Court, Jurist Dr Gopal Narsen, VC Dr Krishna Kant Dave, & Environmentalist Dr Rajesh Singh also addressed the 1 day seminar.

Those present included the Registrar Dr Piyush Pandey, Academic Dean Dr Rajesh Singh, Dr TP Singh, Dr Dinesh Gautam, Dr Divya Girdhar, Dr Anil Jaiswal, Dr Ashutosh Singh, Dr Yogeshwar Sharma & Dr Rajwardhan.

Dr Om Prakash, Dr Ashwini Saxena, Dr Neetu Panwar, Dr Shilpa Raina, were all present.

The Meerut Campus Director, Dr Pratap Singh, was present along with the Media Incharge, Mr. Vishwas Rana among others.

[todayworldnews2k21]

“No religion promotes any activity that promotes pollution or compromises with health of the people,” Supreme Court on firecracker ban

A thick smog engulfs Signature Bridge as Air Quality Index (AQI) remains in the ‘Very Poor’, in New Delhi on Monday. | Photo Credit: ANI Calling it a mere “eyewash”, the Supreme Court came down heavily on the Delhi Police for failing to comprehensively implement the firecracker ban in the national capital and only seizing raw materials. A Bench of Justices Abhay S. Oka and Augustine George Masih…

[elixirsposts]

Delhi’s Air Is Like Smoking 49 Cigarettes a Day

Delhi, India’s capital, is grappling with an unprecedented air quality crisis. On November 18, 2024, the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) soared to a staggering 978, a level considered hazardous for all. This pollution is equivalent to smoking 49 cigarettes daily, posing significant health risks to millions of residents. The crisis has worsened since late October, driven by a combination of factors including firecrackers, vehicular emissions, industrial pollutants, and stubble burning from neighboring states.

Causes of the Pollution Crisis

Several factors contribute to Delhi’s deteriorating air quality:

Firecrackers: Despite regulations, firecracker use during festivals like Diwali continues to be widespread, adding large amounts of particulate matter to the air.

Vehicular Emissions: With millions of vehicles on the road, emissions from cars, trucks, and buses contribute significantly to the city’s pollution levels, particularly during the winter when atmospheric conditions trap pollutants.

Industrial Pollution: Factories and industries around Delhi are major contributors to the pollution problem, releasing harmful gases and particulate matter into the atmosphere.

Stubble Burning: The seasonal practice of burning crop residue in nearby states like Punjab and Haryana exacerbates the crisis, with smoke from these fires drifting into Delhi.

Health Impacts

The hazardous AQI levels are a serious threat to public health. Exposure to high levels of pollutants, such as particulate matter (PM2.5), can lead to respiratory issues, heart conditions, and premature death. Vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and people with pre-existing conditions, are at particular risk.

Hospitals in the city have seen an increase in patients with respiratory and cardiovascular problems. The dense smog also leads to poor visibility and road accidents, further endangering lives.

Government Response and Criticism

The Supreme Court has stepped in, criticizing the Delhi government for delays in implementing Stage-IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). GRAP is a set of anti-pollution measures introduced to address rising pollution levels through a phased approach, depending on the AQI. Stage-IV, the most stringent level, involves shutting down construction activities, banning polluting industries, and halting the entry of non-essential vehicles into the city. However, delays in enforcement have exacerbated the crisis. The Court has mandated that no relaxation in GRAP measures will be allowed, even if AQI levels fall slightly below the hazardous threshold.

The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) helps control air pollution in Delhi-NCR by taking specific actions based on the Air Quality Index (AQI). It has four stages:

1. Stage I – Poor (AQI: 201–300)

Control dust from construction.

Ban firecrackers.

Sprinkle water to reduce dust.

2. Stage II – Very Poor (AQI: 301–400)

Stop diesel generators (except for emergencies).

Clean roads more often.

Encourage public transport and carpooling.

3. Stage III – Severe (AQI: 401–450)

Stop construction (except critical projects like hospitals).

Ban polluting industries like brick kilns.

Use odd-even rules for cars.

4. Stage IV – Emergency (AQI: 450+)

Ban trucks (except essentials).

Shut schools and non-essential industries.

Stop private vehicles except CNG, electric, or emergency ones.

.

Solutions to Delhi’s Air Pollution Crisis

While immediate steps are essential, long-term solutions are critical to ensuring Delhi does not face recurring air quality emergencies. Some actionable measures include:

Transition to Cleaner Energy Sources: Promoting the use of renewable energy and phasing out coal-based power plants will significantly reduce industrial emissions.

Stricter Vehicle Emission Norms: Expanding the use of electric vehicles (EVs) and enforcing stricter emissions standards can help curb pollution from transportation.

Better Public Transport Infrastructure: Strengthening Delhi’s public transportation system can reduce dependency on private vehicles, easing traffic congestion and lowering emissions.

Addressing Stubble Burning: Providing farmers with affordable alternatives, such as subsidies for machinery to process crop residue, can help reduce the practice of burning stubble.

Urban Greening Initiatives: Planting more trees and creating green belts can help absorb pollutants and improve air quality in urban areas.

Regulation of Firecracker Use: Enforcing strict bans on firecrackers and promoting eco-friendly celebrations during festivals can significantly reduce particulate pollution.

Improved Waste Management: Proper disposal and recycling of waste can prevent the open burning of garbage, a significant source of toxic emissions.

Real-Time Air Quality Monitoring: Expanding the air quality monitoring network will provide accurate data for authorities to implement responsive measures.

Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating citizens about sustainable practices and the health impacts of pollution can encourage individual action, such as carpooling, using public transport, or reducing energy consumption.

Collaboration Between States: Coordination between Delhi and neighboring states is essential to implement region-wide policies for reducing industrial, agricultural, and vehicular emissions

How Elixir Enviro Systems (EES) Can Help

Elixir Enviro Systems (EES) is uniquely positioned to provide solutions to alleviate Delhi’s air pollution crisis. With expertise in industrial pollution control, waste management, and odour control, EES offers advanced technologies and services designed to address key contributors to air pollution. By working with industries, municipal bodies, and urban planners, EES can deliver scalable and sustainable solutions to reduce emissions and improve air quality in Delhi and beyond.

Products and Services

Odour Pollution Control Systems: EES specializes in industrial odour control solutions using biofilters, scrubbers, and activated carbon systems. These systems target and eliminate odorous compounds from wastewater treatment plants, industrial facilities, and landfills. By implementing effective odour management solutions, EES can significantly improve the air quality and reduce nuisance odour pollution that contributes to poor air quality.

Comprehensive Waste Management Solutions: Efficient waste management is crucial in controlling air pollution. EES offers integrated solutions for handling industrial and municipal waste. From converting organic waste into biogas and compost to safe disposal and recycling of hazardous materials, EES ensures that waste management practices do not contribute to pollution but instead help reduce environmental impact.

Real-Time Air Quality Monitoring Systems: EES provides state-of-the-art monitoring equipment that enables real-time tracking of air quality and industrial emissions. These systems allow industries and municipal bodies to identify pollution hotspots, track pollutant levels, and implement timely interventions to prevent further deterioration of air quality.

Anaerobic Digesters for Waste-to-Energy: Through the use of anaerobic digesters, EES offers a sustainable way to convert organic waste into biogas, reducing landfill waste and minimizing methane emissions. This solution can also be applied to agricultural waste, Thereby managing Stubble Burning and preventing its harmful impact on air quality. By providing an eco-friendly alternative to burning, EES helps reduce pollution while enabling renewable energy generation.

Consultancy Services: EES offers expert consultancy services to help industries and municipalities implement sustainable practices, adopt pollution control technologies, and comply with environmental regulations. From improving energy efficiency to optimizing waste management processes, EES guides its clients toward more sustainable operations.

By integrating these technologies and services, Elixir Enviro Systems plays a vital role in tackling air pollution and contributing to a cleaner, healthier environment for Delhi and other cities.

Conclusion

Delhi’s air quality crisis is a pressing public health emergency that demands immediate and sustained action. While the government’s response has been slow, decisive steps and long-term strategies can prevent such a situation from recurring. GRAP, if effectively implemented, can serve as a crucial framework to mitigate pollution spikes. Cleaner energy sources, stricter regulations, and public participation are vital to reducing emissions and ensuring a healthier future for Delhi’s residents. The time to act is now—before the capital’s toxic air becomes a permanent threat to life and health.

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[ad_1] Paromita Das GG News Bureau New Delhi, 12th November. Delhi’s persistent air pollution crisis has sparked urgent debates, with the Supreme Court recently questioning the efficacy of temporary bans on firecrackers. With Justices Abhay S. Oka and Augustine George Masih highlighting the health impacts of pollution, the Court underscored the necessity for a statewide, year-round ban on firecrackers, challenging the seasonal limitations of current regulations. This perspective marks a significant moment in Bharat’s environmental policy discourse, reflecting an evolving judicial approach towards the rights to health and clean air. Understanding the Court’s Position The Supreme Court’s remarks are rooted in the acknowledgment that air pollution in Delhi is a year-round concern and that temporary restrictions, primarily around the festive season, fail to address the overarching public health risks. Justice Oka’s statement, “We are of the view that no religion encourages any activity which creates pollution,” reflects a broader sentiment that public health and safety should not be compromised by tradition or festival customs. The Court’s rationale connects directly to citizens’ fundamental right to health, which is repeatedly endangered by Delhi’s severe air quality issues, exacerbated by activities like firecracker detonation. This stance raises an essential question: If air pollution remains high throughout the year, why should firecracker bans be limited to October through January? The Court’s argument suggests that periodic restrictions serve as an inadequate band-aid solution, failing to address a problem that significantly impacts public health and disproportionately affects vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and those with respiratory issues. The Case for a Permanent Firecracker Ban Health Concerns: Numerous studies have shown that air pollutants from firecrackers—like particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen oxides—pose severe health risks, contributing to respiratory issues, cardiovascular diseases, and even cognitive decline. For a city like Delhi, already battling dangerous pollution levels, adding firecracker emissions only worsens the crisis. Firecracker pollution persists long after festivals, as particles settle into airways and lungs, resulting in prolonged exposure. Environmental Impact: Firecrackers release not only harmful gases but also large amounts of metal particles like lead, cadmium, and other toxins, which seep into the environment, affecting soil and water quality. With an annual ban, Delhi could significantly reduce its cumulative pollution levels and mitigate adverse effects on ecosystems already compromised by urbanization. Ineffectiveness of Seasonal Bans: Limiting bans to peak pollution seasons fails to address the fact that Delhi’s air quality remains in poor to hazardous categories even outside these months. This piecemeal approach, focusing on short-term results, undercuts more sustainable, impactful environmental reforms that a year-round ban would represent. Public Awareness and Behavior Shift: Enforcing a permanent ban could help shift public mindset regarding firecracker usage. With continuous reinforcement, communities may adopt healthier alternatives to celebrate festivals, such as eco-friendly light shows or cultural performances, which would not only support environmental efforts but also reduce noise pollution. Challenges to Implementation While the argument for a permanent ban is compelling, implementing it poses substantial challenges. For instance: Regulatory Oversight: The Delhi government and police have faced criticism for inconsistent enforcement of existing bans. A perpetual ban would necessitate a dedicated task force or monitoring system to ensure compliance year-round, from wholesale distributors down to retail vendors. Social and Cultural Opposition: Firecrackers are deeply ingrained in Bharatiya celebrations, particularly during festivals like Diwali, weddings, and political rallies.

Banning them entirely would require significant public education campaigns to underscore the health benefits and environmental necessity behind such a measure. Economic Impact on the Firecracker Industry: The firecracker industry provides livelihoods for thousands of workers in Bharat. A permanent ban would affect these families, necessitating a long-term transition plan and alternative job creation in cleaner industries. A Shift in Perspective: Prioritizing Public Health Over Tradition The Supreme Court’s position is progressive, framing pollution control as a non-negotiable aspect of public health policy rather than a seasonal adjustment. The Court’s statement—“If anyone wants to claim the fundamental right to burst crackers, let them come to court!”—further emphasizes the stance that the right to public health supersedes individual preferences for traditional firecracker celebrations. The judiciary’s intervention signals a broader shift towards protecting citizens’ right to clean air and health, even if it challenges conventional norms. In advocating for this measure, the Supreme Court has taken a step toward institutionalizing sustainable urban policies in Delhi, underscoring the importance of ecological preservation alongside cultural observances. The Path Forward Education and Awareness Programs: For a successful transition, there needs to be extensive public outreach about the health impacts of air pollution and the benefits of avoiding firecrackers. Schools, NGOs, and media can play a pivotal role in shifting the public’s perspective. Promotion of Eco-Friendly Alternatives: Developing and promoting alternative forms of celebration—like laser light shows, public fireworks displays using green crackers, and community festivals—could help ease the cultural transition away from firecracker usage. Enhanced Regulatory Framework: The Delhi government and police need clearer guidelines and greater accountability in enforcing bans, including revoking licenses for violators and penalizing illegal sales. Furthermore, regular air quality assessments and public disclosures can bolster community support for stringent pollution control. Conclusion: A Judicial Call for Long-Term Health and Sustainability The Supreme Court’s demand for a permanent firecracker ban in Delhi is an acknowledgment of the pressing need for sustainable environmental governance. By framing the ban as an essential element of the public’s fundamental right to health, the Court has underscored that pollution control is not merely a seasonal or temporary issue but an ongoing priority. Enforcing a year-round firecracker ban could set a precedent for other states and cities grappling with similar pollution challenges, promoting a cleaner, healthier future. While challenging, the successful implementation of such a policy would mark a monumental shift in Bharat’s approach to balancing cultural practices with environmental sustainability and public health, reflecting a deep commitment to creating livable urban spaces for all citizens.   The post Delhi Needs a Year-Round Firecracker Ban: Supreme Court Highlights Public Health Risks appeared first on Global Governance News- Asia's First Bilingual News portal for Global News and Updates. [ad_2] Source link