Supreme Court Alarmed as Delhi-NCR Schools Defy Pollution Directives Ahead of December 17 Hearing

The Supreme Court of India has raised serious concerns over reports that several schools in Delhi and the National Capital Region are ignoring court-mandated restrictions on outdoor sports and recreational activities during periods of high air pollution. The Court has scheduled a hearing on December 17 to review compliance with its orders.

Schools Defying Court Orders

During the hearing, it was reported to the Court that schools are finding ways to continue outdoor sports activities, despite explicit instructions to suspend such events in November and December when pollution levels peak. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has also issued notifications emphasizing the ban, yet schools have circumvented these guidelines.

Supreme Court Observations

The bench, headed by Chief Justice Suryakant with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M. Pancholi, noted:

• Directives must be practical and enforceable, otherwise compliance remains low.
• Citizens, including schools, must adapt to circumstances and change their routines to minimize pollution exposure.
• Consideration must be given to the impact on vulnerable populations, particularly the poor and children, who face the greatest health risks.

Implementation Challenges

Court advisors highlighted that while GRAP-IV measures are in place, poor implementation by authorities remains a major issue. Construction workers and other outdoor laborers are also affected, with work halted due to pollution control measures. The bench stressed that pre-existing protocols must be followed rigorously until new directives are issued.

Hybrid Hearings Suggested

Acknowledging current weather conditions and health risks, Chief Justice Suryakant advised lawyers and litigants that they may appear via video conferencing for listed cases, allowing hearings to proceed safely in a hybrid mode.

The Supreme Court’s upcoming review aims to ensure strict compliance with pollution control measures, protect public health, and hold both schools and authorities accountable for negligence in implementing critical air quality safeguards.