Supreme Court Slams Delhi Govt: Every Family Faces Health Crisis Amid "Severe" AQI Levels

Health Issues Affecting Every Delhi-NCR Family

According to a Local Circles poll, no family is immune to the severe air quality in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR). The report revealed that at least one member of every family in the area is suffering from pollution-related health issues.

Asthma, headaches, coughing, sore throats, and breathing problems are common illnesses. Alarmingly, the number of families reporting these conditions has doubled in only one month.

Delhi's Air Quality Is Dangerous

Delhi’s 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 424, classified as "severe," by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). The severity of the situation was highlighted by reports that the concentration of PM2.5 pollutants in Delhi’s air was 60 times greater than the daily limit recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO).

How Locals Are Handling Polluted Air

Families in Delhi-NCR are trying various measures to combat the hazardous air. Around 27% are using air purifiers, staying indoors, and consuming immunity-boosting foods and beverages. Some families are opting to temporarily leave Delhi, similar to the elderly migrating to warmer places during winter. Nevertheless, 27% of families reported taking no measures, to live with the pollution. Wealthier residents are spending money on cutting-edge air filtration technologies to minimize health hazards.

Enforcement of GRAP-4 Restrictions

Authorities have put Stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) into effect in response to the severe air pollution. This includes bans on diesel-powered vehicles and non-essential trucks entering Delhi, as well as moving to online learning and remote work for offices and schools. These measures are intended to curb emissions and reduce public exposure to toxic air.

Supreme Court Criticizes Delhi Government

The Supreme Court has reprimanded the Delhi government for its tardiness in implementing GRAP-4 measures. “The moment the AQI reaches between 300 and 400, stage 4 has to be invoked. How can you take risk in these matters by delaying applicability of stage 4 of GRAP?” questioned justices Abhay S Oka and Augustine George Masih stating why Stage 4 was not invoked earlier. The court emphasized that no relaxation of preventive measures would be permitted, even if the AQI values fall below 450.

In conclusion

As Delhi-NCR grapples with a public health crisis, immediate action, and ongoing efforts are required to address the dangerous air quality. Residents and authorities alike face mounting challenges in reducing the negative effects of pollution.

By Manasa Permulla