The Supreme Court demanded Punjab and Haryana report on steps taken against stubble burning. Air quality in Delhi-NCR has worsened to hazardous levels after Diwali and ongoing crop residue fires. The Chief Justice BR Gavai-led bench ordered both states to file detailed action reports by November 17. The Supreme Court demanded Punjab, Haryana action on stubble burning, emphasizing urgent control measures.
Legal experts urged implementing the toughest tier of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP IV). AQI readings surged above 450 in several Delhi areas, prompting calls to ban construction and restrict vehicle emissions. The court expressed concern over possible manipulation of air quality monitoring data from local stations.
Senior lawyers reminded the bench that earlier orders asked for pre-emptive rather than reactive steps. The Justices confirmed they will act against ongoing construction and excavation affecting air quality. The next hearing is set for November 17 to monitor state compliance and pollution levels.
