Supreme Court to Hear Delhi-NCR Pollution

The India — Supreme Court of India has announced it will hear a plea on December 17 concerning the escalating air pollution crisis in India — Delhi and the India — National Capital Region (India). This decision comes as India — Delhi experienced one of its most polluted days this winter, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching 498, classified as 'severe'. Chief Justice Surya Kant, along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M. Pancholi, heard submissions from senior advocate Aparajita, who highlighted the poor implementation of existing preventive measures by authorities. The court emphasized the need for enforceable orders, noting that compliance often occurs only under direct judicial supervision. Concerns were also raised about schools holding outdoor sports activities despite previous directives and the disproportionate impact on poor laborers. The India — Commission for Air Quality Management in National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas has invoked the strictest restrictions under Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), leading to bans on heavy diesel and petrol vehicles, advice for work-from-home, and hybrid schooling. The Singapore — Traffic police has also set a speed limit of 40 kmph due to reduced visibility.