Expressing dissatisfaction over the pollution situation not showing any "significant improvement", the tribunal directed the authorities concerned to come up with measures to improve the air quality
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has expressed dissatisfaction with several states for not fully complying with its earlier directive to take "immediate remedial action" in response to deteriorating Air Quality Index (AQI) levels. The tribunal, noting the lack of "significant improvement" in the pollution situation, has instructed the authorities to reassess their approach, implement sufficient measures to enhance air quality, and submit a detailed action taken report.
Previously, the NGT had issued notices to the chief secretaries of multiple states, including Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Bihar, and Jharkhand, based on the Central Pollution Control Board's online air quality bulletins. Some cities in these states were reported to have AQI levels classified as 'severe,' 'very poor,' and 'poor.'
The AQI scale categorises air quality from 'good' (0–50) to'satisfactory' (51–100),'moderate' (101-200), 'poor' (201-300),'very poor' (301–400),'severe' (401–450), and'severe plu plus' (above 450).
The NGT bench, chaired by Justice Prakash Shrivastava, noted the AQI readings from November 3–9 and remarked that the authorities appeared to be lacking in making the necessary efforts to improve air quality. Reviewing reports submitted by state authorities, the bench observed that the focus was mainly on long-term action plans for air pollution control, neglecting the tribunal's directive for immediate remedial action.
The bench emphasised the need for state authorities and chief secretaries to reassess their strategies, implement effective measures, identify major pollution sources contributing to air quality deterioration, and take immediate steps to address them.
In a recent order, the tribunal highlighted the seriousness of the issue, emphasising its adverse effects on public health, particularly for infants and the elderly. It directed all chief secretaries of states where cities experienced a decline or sustained'severe,''very poor,' and 'poor' AQI levels to take immediate remedial measures and ensure air quality improvement. Further action taken reports are required by November 23 for continued proceedings.