Supreme Court issues several notices to tackle air pollution
What's the story
A thick cloud of toxic smog has enveloped India's capital, ten times thicker than the acceptable limit of air pollution. After the Indian Medical Association recently declared a public health emergency in the NCR, the Supreme Court has issued notices to the Centre, and the Delhi, UP, Punjab and Haryana governments regarding stubble burning.
Pollution norms
Delhi HC asks government to be vigilant with vehicle checks
The Delhi HC pointed out the rampant violation of rules and pollution norms in Delhi and the NCR in general. It said that the Delhi Police needed to be more vigilant in checking whether vehicles on the capital's roads were complying with pollution norms. It went on to ask the Delhi government why vehicle checks weren't being carried out regularly to ensure compliance.
EPCA proposal
The EPCA proposes a ban on diesel vehicles
Despite all schools in Delhi reopening on Monday, deteriorating air pollution led to the cancellation of at least 10 trains on Monday, and four on Tuesday due to low visibility. The Environmental Pollution (Prevention & Control) Authority (EPCA) suggested a ban on diesel vehicles and proposed that thermal power plants be shutdown when pollution breaches emergency levels in Delhi and the NCR in general.
NGT
The recommendations of the National Green Tribunal
On Saturday, the National Green Tribunal gave the go-ahead to the odd-even scheme and disapproved of all the exemptions that were given during the previous two phases in January and April 2016. However, the Delhi government moved the NGT today, seeking an amendment to exempt women drivers from the odd-even scheme due to issues of security and safety.