'Why firecracker ban was not followed?': SC to Delhi, police
What's the story
The Supreme Court has slammed the Delhi government and police for not implementing a firecracker ban on Diwali. This comes as the capital continues to grapple with severe air pollution, with the AQI hitting "severe" levels in several regions. The court sought explanations from both parties for this non-compliance. Justices Abhay S Oka and Augustine George Masih observed that firecrackers were being brought into Delhi from neighboring states, highlighting lack of public understanding and enforcement.
Proposed measures
SC proposes strict actions, perpetual firecracker ban
To prevent future violations, the Supreme Court has suggested strict actions like sealing premises of violators. It also proposed a perpetual ban on firecrackers in Delhi, beyond festival times. The court has sought responses from the Delhi authorities within a week and scheduled further hearings on November 14.
Pollution crisis
Delhi's air quality worsens post-Diwali
The air quality in Delhi worsened drastically after Diwali, with the AQI turning "severe" in several regions. On November 1, particulate matter levels were seven times higher than World Health Organization safety limits. The situation was worsened by farm fires in Punjab and Haryana, which added to pollution. Despite a reported 15% decrease in farm fire contributions to air pollution, PM2.5 levels in Delhi turned hazardous post-Diwali.
Legal scrutiny
SC questions central government, criticizes environmental laws
The Supreme Court also asked Punjab and Haryana to explain the increase in farm fires in late October. It questioned the central government on enforcing penalties on farmers burning waste material. The court slammed "toothless" environmental laws and asked for updates on making Section 15 of the EPA operative again.