Big decision of the Supreme Court, ‘Grape-4 restrictions will remain in force in Delhi-NCR till December 2’
The threat of pollution in the country’s capital Delhi and NCR is not showing any signs of decreasing. In such a situation, the Supreme Court has refused to remove the restrictions of Grape 4. The court has decided that Group 4 restrictions will remain in force in Delhi and NCR areas till December 2. Except schools, Grape-4 will remain applicable at other places.
The Court Commissioner’s report shows that the authorities have failed to properly implement the restrictions under Group 4. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) revealed during the hearing that it has issued show cause notices to key officials including the Delhi Police Commissioner, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) Commissioner and the Delhi Transport Department.
Expressing dissatisfaction, the Court pointed to a report that detailed significant enforcement gaps, terming it a “gross failure”. The bench directed the CAQM to expedite action against officials found guilty of non-compliance, stressing that such negligence cannot be tolerated amid deteriorating air quality.
Earlier this week, the Court refused to ease GRAP-IV restrictions in general, but allowed schools to resume physical classes. It acknowledged that many students depend on midday meals provided in schools, struggle with online learning, and do not have access to air purifiers at home. The decision strikes a balance between prioritizing education and addressing health concerns caused by poor air quality.
