Supreme Court Seeks Report on Delhi Air Quality Amidst Post-Diwali Pollution Crisis

Environment

3rd November 2025, 9:44 AM

Supreme Court Seeks Report on Delhi Air Quality Amidst Post-Diwali Pollution Crisis

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Short Description :

The Supreme Court has directed the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to submit a status report on the worsening air quality in Delhi. This order comes after concerns were raised that most air quality monitoring stations in the city were non-functional during Diwali, and allegations of the Delhi government spraying water to manipulate pollution readings.

Detailed Coverage :

The Supreme Court of India, led by Chief Justice of India BR Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran, has ordered the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to provide a comprehensive report on the deteriorating air quality in Delhi. The directive was issued after it was brought to the court's attention that a significant number of air quality monitoring stations in Delhi were not operational during the recent Diwali celebrations, with only 9 out of 37 functioning. Senior Advocate Aparajita Singh, serving as the amicus curiae in the Delhi air pollution case, highlighted this issue and requested the report from CAQM.

Reports also suggest that the Delhi government deployed water tankers to spray water around air quality monitoring stations, allegedly to artificially lower Air Quality Index (AQI) readings. This news comes after the Supreme Court had previously permitted the use of green crackers during Diwali. However, with the severe increase in pollution levels, medical experts are advising residents to temporarily leave Delhi.

Impact This news could lead to increased scrutiny and stricter environmental regulations by the government, potentially impacting industries that contribute to air pollution in Delhi. It may also boost sectors focused on pollution control technologies and public health services. The direct impact on the Indian stock market is moderate, but regulatory changes could have indirect effects. Rating: 4/10.

Difficult terms explained: Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM): A statutory body established by the Indian government to control and manage air quality in the National Capital Region and its surrounding areas. Amicus Curiae: A Latin term meaning 'friend of the court.' This is an impartial advisor appointed by the court to assist in a legal case by providing information or expertise. Air Quality Index (AQI): A numerical scale used to report how polluted the air is on any given day. It indicates the level of pollution and its potential health effects.