The Supreme Court took note of a comprehensive status report submitted by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), outlining long-term measures to combat Delhi-NCR’s persistent air pollution crisis. The Bench, led by the Chief Justice of India, observed that there could be “no doubt” that the recommended measures must be given effect without any delay and directed all stakeholders concerned to submit their respective action taken plans within four weeks.

Appearing for the CAQM, Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati informed the Court that the vehicular sector is the primary contributor to air pollution in the region. The Commission has proposed phasing out highly polluting vehicles, strengthening the PUC 2.0 regime, expanding metro and rail networks, developing additional RRTS corridors, revising electric vehicle policies, and providing enhanced incentives for scrapping old vehicles.

Amicus Curiae Aparajita Singh suggested that authorities must also provide clear timelines for implementing these steps, a submission that found favour with the Bench.

The Court also took up CAQM’s recommendations on easing congestion at Delhi’s entry points, including restructuring toll plazas to reduce traffic bottlenecks. Observing that objections to the measures would not be entertained, the Bench made it clear that it would only consider implementation plans and not challenges to the policy framework.

Directing agencies such as the Delhi Municipal Corporation and authorities in neighbouring states to comply, the Court reiterated that immediate execution not further deliberation was the need of the hour. The Bench also permitted the Amicus to suggest additional long-term measures, which CAQM may incorporate through a supplementary report, if necessary.