Amid growing concerns over the deteriorating air quality in the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR), the Supreme Court issued a strong directive to the Punjab government. The Court’s decision, made during a hearing on air pollution in Delhi-NCR, emphasized the urgent need to stop stubble burning. A bench of Justices Sanjay Kishan Kaul and Sudhanshu Dhulia stated that this issue should not be a perpetual political battle and that decisive action is required.
The Supreme Court’s message was clear: “We want it (stubble burning) stopped. We don’t know how you do it, it’s your job, but it must be stopped. Something has to be done immediately.” This stern directive came in response to the government’s assertion that farmers burn stubble due to economic reasons.
The Court also pointed out that the Punjab government’s approach is detrimental to the region’s groundwater, as it promotes millets on one hand while allowing paddy to deplete the water table. The Court expressed concerns about the environmental impact of cultivating this crop and its effect on the weather in the Delhi area.
Additionally, the Supreme Court directed the governments of Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan to halt stubble burning immediately. It made the local Station House Officer (SHO) responsible for enforcing the Court’s directive, with oversight from the Director Generals of Police (DGPs) and the Chief Secretary.
The Court also noted that a previously ordered smog tower was not functioning and instructed the government to ensure its repair. It called for the Chief Secretaries of the concerned states to convene a meeting, either in person or through virtual means, to address the pollution issue.
Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul, overseeing the air pollution matter, highlighted that during his recent travels through Punjab, he witnessed widespread fires on both sides of the road. The Court further criticized measures like the odd-even scheme for vehicles, considering them mere optical solutions.
The Supreme Court scheduled a follow-up hearing on the air pollution matter for November 10, emphasizing the urgency of addressing this critical issue.
