As the monsoon season comes to an end, pollution levels in Delhi are on the rise again. Over the past 24 hours, the city recorded an average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 166, indicating that the air quality is becoming increasingly concerning for residents.
Several areas in Delhi are experiencing particularly high pollution levels. Anand Vihar reported an AQI of 231, Mundka recorded 273, while Loni and the Delhi Institute of Tool Engineering saw AQIs of 201 and 243, respectively. These figures fall into the unhealthy and hazardous categories. Additionally, the concentration of PM2.5 particles in the air is currently 5.5 times higher than the limits set by the World Health Organization for a 24-hour period.
The pollution issue extends beyond Delhi, with neighboring areas also reporting elevated AQI levels. Ghaziabad recorded an AQI of 171, Meerut reached 184, and Noida also saw an AQI of 184.
In light of the worsening air quality, Daljit Singh Cheema, a leader from the Shiromani Akali Dal, urged the Supreme Court to take action against the states of Punjab and Haryana. This plea comes after the Supreme Court criticized both states for their role in contributing to air pollution.
"The Supreme Court has consistently made efforts to resolve the pollution issues affecting Delhi and surrounding areas, yet the problem continues to grow each year. The court has again addressed the governments of Punjab and Haryana," Cheema said.
He further emphasized the need for the Supreme Court to enforce action, arguing that blaming farmers alone is insufficient. "They need to provide farmers with proper facilities," he added.
The Supreme Court also expressed frustration with the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) for failing to implement its directives on air pollution. "From the affidavit of compliance, we find that no effort is being made by CAQM to enforce its directions. Not a single prosecution has been initiated, and the last meeting was held on August 29," the court remarked.
The Supreme Court has ordered the governments of Punjab and Haryana to adhere to CAQM directives and submit an affidavit within a week. The case is scheduled for a hearing on October 16.
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