Pollution is increasingly affecting the air quality in Delhi, the nation’s capital, with significant deterioration reported daily. Despite the implementation of several stringent measures, pollution levels continue to rise, severely impacting the health and daily routines of residents.
Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud on Thursday addressed this pressing issue during a recent press conference at the Supreme Court. He stated that he has ceased his morning walks due to worsening air quality, saying, “As of today, I’ve stopped going for morning walks. Usually, I go for a walk around 4 to 4:15 AM.” He explained that, on the advice of his personal doctor, staying indoors is now preferable to avoid respiratory health risks associated with the poor air quality.
Over the past week, Delhi has recorded some of the worst air quality levels in the country, prompting the Supreme Court to issue warnings to the central government, as well as the Punjab and Haryana governments, regarding their failure to enforce effective anti-pollution measures. A bench comprising Justices Abhay S Oka, A Amanullah, and AG Masih commended efforts by the Punjab and Haryana governments to curb stubble burning, a significant contributor to Delhi’s pollution crisis. The toxic fumes from these states frequently envelop the capital, exacerbating the severe winter smog.
Additionally, the Supreme Court recently criticized the Air Quality Panel in Delhi for failing to achieve its pollution control objectives, highlighting the urgent need for effective interventions. CJI DY Chandrachud is scheduled to retire on November 10, with Justice Sanjiv Khanna set to be sworn in as the 51st Chief Justice of India on November 11.