In a noteworthy improvement, Delhi's air quality witnessed a positive shift on Friday, transitioning from the 'Very Poor' to the 'Poor' category, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). At 8 am, Anand Vihar recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 300, categorizing it as 'Poor.' Similarly, New Moti Bagh and IGI Airport (T3) displayed improved air quality with AQIs of 294 and 291, respectively, placing them in the 'Poor' category. However, Punjabi Bagh maintained its 'Very Poor' status, registering an AQI of 333.
Despite this positive change, the Supreme Court underscored the persistent issue of crop residue burning, a significant contributor to deteriorating air quality in Delhi-NCR. The court urged state governments to take immediate measures to curb pollution and emphasized judicial monitoring to prevent recurring issues during winters. The need for continuous oversight was highlighted by the court, emphasizing that efforts should be made to ensure a better environment in the upcoming winter seasons. The bench further directed concerned states to implement action plans and submit progress reports within two months.
The court's observations on Wednesday stemmed from its ongoing involvement in addressing air pollution issues in Delhi-NCR. The focus on crop residue burning and the call for sustained monitoring reflect the court's commitment to resolving the recurring problem, marking it as an ongoing priority on the judicial agenda.**