SC to Take Suggestions from Citizens to Curb Air Pollution in Delhi, First Hearing in February

A bench headed by Chief Justice N.V. Ramana and comprising Justices D.Y. Chandrachud and Surya Kant asked the commission to invite suggestions from the general public and experts on finding a permanent solution to curb pollution in Delhi. The top court has scheduled the matter for further hearing in the first week of February.

The commission, in an affidavit, informed the top court that it had permitted the resumption of full-time operation of milk and dairy processing units, medicines, drugs and life-saving equipment industries.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Centre, submitted before the bench that certain industries were permitted to function for 8 hours. Still, some industries said their nature would require continuous functioning, and 8 hours would not be sufficient. Mehta added that these industries had been asked to operate continuously for five days and not for seven days. "And we have staggered industries, so they don't function on the same days," he submitted.

Mehta contended that construction activities would be taken on Friday, and construction work for hospitals has been permitted. He informed the bench that experts, including scientists from prestigious organisations, are also examining long-term measures to combat air pollution in the capital, a recurring problem.

After hearing arguments in the matter, the top court said the expert group constituted by the commission could look into the suggestions made by the general public and experts.

A special bench of the Supreme Court is hearing a plea by a 17-year-old Delhi student connected with severe air pollution in the capital. Senior advocate Vikas Singh is representing the petitioner in the top court.

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The above article has been published from a wire agency with minimal modifications to the headline and text.