Vehicles major cause of pollution, it’s a free-for-all in Delhi, says Supreme Court

Saying that vehicular pollution is a major contributor to the deteriorating air quality in Delhi-NCR, the Supreme Court on Friday asked why it is taking place despite all the measures put in place by the government so far. It expressed concern over the “bumper-to-bumper traffic” in the Capital, noting that it's a “free-for-all”.

To address the other issue of stubble burning, the court said farmers should be provided economic incentives and practical alternatives. It said crop residue (parali) can be procured by procurement agencies, and the rates notified beforehand. The bench, comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana, was hearing a suo motu case examining the regulatory framework governing air pollution.

I hope you all are enjoying the weather in Delhi,” the CJI said as soon as the bench took up the matter. “A major cause of the pollution is vehicular pollution. Look at the roads in Delhi, look at the roads connecting Delhi to the NCR… the kind of bumper-to-bumper traffic.