NGT Takes Suo Motu Cognizance of Deteriorating Air Quality in Delhi

NGT Takes Suo Motu Cognizance of Deteriorating Air Quality in Delhi

VoM News Desk | October 21, 2023 | 05:02 PM IST | Breaking News, Climate & Environment | Follow on Google News

NGT Takes Suo Motu Cognizance of Deteriorating Air Quality in Delhi

NGT Takes Suo Motu Cognizance of Deteriorating Air Quality in Delhi

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has stepped in to address the worsening air quality situation in the National Capital, as reported in the media. In an order dated October 20, 2023, the NGT, headed by Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava and expert member Dr. A Senthil Vel, noted the concerns expressed in the media and initiated suo motu cognizance of the matter.

Stakeholders Implicated and Action Sought

The NGT directed the inclusion of key stakeholders in the case, including the Chief Secretary of Delhi, Member Secretary of the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), Commissioner of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), Member Secretary of the Central Pollution Control Committee (CPCB), and the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEF&CC).

The respondents are expected to submit an action taken report detailing measures to control air pollution from various sources in Delhi in accordance with the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). The aim is to maintain the Air Quality Index (AQI) within an acceptable range to protect public health, especially in anticipation of the upcoming winter season.

Hearing and Accountability

The NGT has scheduled a detailed hearing on November 8, 2023, to delve into the matter and hold stakeholders accountable. Various media reports had highlighted that the air quality had dipped to a “poor” level, with the AQI ranging from 177 to 212. An AQI between 201 and 300 is considered poor, causing discomfort upon prolonged exposure.

Moreover, media reports indicated that despite the application of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in the capital, violations persisted, primarily due to dust pollution generated by construction activities. The NGT’s intervention aims to address these issues and improve air quality in Delhi.

VoM News Desk

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