The Supreme Court on Monday emphasized that Delhi’s persistent air pollution crisis cannot be resolved through short-term or blanket measures like a year-round Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). The court said tackling the city’s toxic air requires a long-term, sustainable strategy that does not disrupt the livelihoods of migrant laborers and daily wage workers.
Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai remarked that a “perennial GRAP” would be a harsh approach and could create severe economic and social repercussions. “The solution is not to take a short-term measure effective for one or two months,” the Chief Justice said. “The government has to bring all stakeholders on board and consider a solution that will gradually reduce air pollution over the years.”
Short-Term Measures vs Long-Term Policy
The Supreme Court highlighted that knee-jerk reactions to worsening air quality, such as imposing strict vehicular restrictions, halting construction, or implementing GRAP measures all year, could negatively affect millions of workers who rely on daily wages.
Even the Centre’s Additional Solicitor General, Aishwarya Bhati, acknowledged that reactive measures would likely prove counterproductive. She noted that Delhi’s pollution stems from multiple sources, including:
- Stubble burning in neighboring states like Punjab and Haryana
- Vehicular emissions
- Dust from construction activities
- Industrial pollutants
“Harsh measures may temporarily reduce pollution but fail to address the root causes,” Bhati said, stressing the importance of coordinated action across states.
Impact on Migrant Workers and Daily Wage Earners
The court stressed that any policy addressing air pollution must consider its socioeconomic impact. Migrant laborers and construction workers are especially vulnerable, as restrictions on construction, transport, or outdoor work could severely affect their earnings.
“The solution must not come at the cost of livelihoods,” the Chief Justice said. “We need a phased and inclusive approach that balances public health with economic realities.”
The Need for a Long-Term Strategy
Experts and policymakers have long argued that Delhi’s air pollution is a “wicked problem”, a complex issue that requires multiple interventions over time. Long-term solutions include:
- Strengthening air quality monitoring and forecasting
- Promoting cleaner fuels and electric vehicles
- Controlling stubble burning through incentives and mechanized alternatives
- Implementing dust control measures at construction sites
- Encouraging industrial compliance with emission norms
The Supreme Court’s observations echo these recommendations, urging the Centre to develop a comprehensive action plan that addresses pollution at its source while maintaining economic activity in the region.
Stakeholder Coordination Essential
The apex court highlighted that tackling Delhi’s air pollution is not just a matter for the city alone. It requires cooperation from neighboring states, municipal authorities, construction companies, and industrial units. Without coordinated action, short-term measures like GRAP will have limited impact.
“Air pollution is a long-term problem that cannot be solved with reactive measures alone,” the Chief Justice said. “We need a phased, inclusive strategy with the participation of all stakeholders to gradually improve air quality over time.”
Public Awareness and Participation
Experts also stress that public awareness is crucial. Citizens are encouraged to adopt cleaner practices, reduce vehicle use, and avoid burning waste at home. Long-term improvements will depend on both policy and behavioral changes across the population.
The Supreme Court’s ruling reinforces the need for a balanced, sustainable, and inclusive approach to one of Delhi’s most pressing challenges, ensuring public health is safeguarded without compromising livelihoods.