The Supreme Court has instructed the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to submit an affidavit detailing the measures taken to prevent the worsening air pollution crisis in Delhi-NCR. The court noted recent media reports highlighting the malfunctioning of air quality monitoring stations.

A bench comprising Chief Justice B.R. Gavai and Justice K. Vinod Chandran was hearing environmental cases related to the MC Mehta case. It is important to mention that on October 14, the court temporarily lifted the complete ban on firecrackers in Delhi-NCR, allowing the use of green crackers during Diwali under certain conditions.

According to the available information, the court had issued several directives in that order, including the monitoring of the air quality index and the preparation of pollution level reports. During the proceedings, it was emphasized that preventive measures must be taken before the pollution situation escalates. In response to the request for a report from CAQM, the Supreme Court mandated that the commission file a detailed affidavit outlining its upcoming actions to prevent further deterioration of air quality.

During the hearing, senior advocate Aparajita Singh (amicus curiae) expressed concern over reports of non-functional air monitoring stations, stating that if these stations are not operational, it would be challenging to determine when the GRAP rules would be implemented.

In response, CAQM indicated that they had already submitted a report, which could not be heard due to time constraints. They also placed the responsibility on the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), stating that the data is available with them, hence they should file the report. The amicus curiae objected, arguing that the commission appeared to be shirking its responsibilities.

Notably, in the October 14 order, the Supreme Court provided detailed instructions regarding the sale, monitoring, licensing of green crackers, and preventing the entry of firecrackers from outside areas into NCR. Under these directives, district-level patrolling teams will be established to monitor sales, and restrictions will be placed on the online purchase and sale of firecrackers.

The court has clarified that the relief granted is only for a "test case" and will be reviewed in the future.

Before the next hearing on this matter, both CAQM and CPCB must submit their respective reports, clarifying the status of pollution prevention, the functionality of monitoring stations, and compliance with the rules implemented during Diwali.