India news: Vehicles major cause of Delhi pollution, top court says
India's Supreme Court called for responsible celebrations during festivals, particularly Diwali, as it addressed the issue of air pollution in Delhi. DW has more.
The Supreme Court of India has ruled that vehicular pollution is a significant contributor to Delhi's worsening air quality, questioning the government's efforts to mitigate the issue. The bench, led by Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana, opened proceedings with a light-hearted remark about the city's weather.
The court highlighted that Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) has consistently remained above the hazardous 300 mark. Winter conditions exacerbate the problem, trapping pollutants in the city. Vehicular pollution is identified as a major cause, attributed to the heavy traffic and bumper-to-bumper conditions on Delhi's roads. The court expressed concern over the failure of past government measures to control air pollution in Delhi, stating that achieving an AQI below 100 during winters is unrealistic, as "very poor" and "severe" air quality has become the new norm.
Regarding stubble burning, the court suggested providing economic incentives to farmers and finding practical alternatives. The court also urged responsible celebrations during festivals, particularly Diwali, where firecrackers exacerbate air pollution. It questioned the necessity of modern firecrackers and advocated reverting to traditional customs.
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