The Supreme Court has directed central and state authorities to take urgent measures to curb air pollution ahead of the winter season, highlighting gaps in manpower and administrative preparedness. The Court, in its order, called upon the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), and state pollution control boards to formulate and implement action plans within three weeks to tackle escalating pollution levels. The bench, headed by Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai and Justice K. Vinod Chandran, emphasised the need for immediate and effective steps to safeguard public health.
The matter was prompted by longstanding vacancies in key positions within state pollution control boards and central bodies, particularly in Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Punjab. The CAQM, a statutory authority established by the Centre, is tasked with monitoring and improving air quality in the National Capital Region (NCR) and surrounding areas. The Court was informed that these vacancies had hindered pollution management, especially during peak pollution periods.
During proceedings, the Court noted that inadequate staffing during critical periods had exacerbated environmental challenges. The states were called out for failing to fill essential positions in their pollution control boards, which in turn affected the efficacy of anti-pollution measures.
The Apex Court observed that "insufficient manpower in pollution control boards during high-risk seasons worsens the air quality crisis and undermines statutory responsibilities." It stressed that both the CAQM and CPCB, along with state authorities, must ensure prompt staffing and operational readiness. The Court granted three months for filling existing vacancies and six months for promotional posts across all boards.
The Court directed the concerned authorities to submit compliance reports and mandated that action plans to reduce pollution must be in place within three weeks. The matter has been listed for further hearing on October 8.
Source PTI
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