Supreme Court Highlights Role of Affluent Lifestyle in Delhi-NCR Pollution Crisis

The Supreme Court of India has expressed serious concern over the rising levels of air pollution in Delhi-NCR, attributing a significant part of the problem to the unsustainable lifestyle choices of the affluent. The bench, led by Chief Justice Suryakant along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M. Pancholi, emphasized that wealthy citizens’ preference for large, fuel-intensive vehicles and other pollution-causing equipment exacerbates the already critical air quality in the region.

Key Observations by the Supreme Court:

• Lifestyle and Compliance Issues: The Court noted that despite multiple orders and regulations to curb pollution, implementation has remained ineffective because affluent citizens are unwilling to adjust their lifestyle habits.
• Impact on Public Health: The bench highlighted that this negligence disproportionately affects the poor and working-class populations, who are most exposed to hazardous air. Children are particularly vulnerable, with school authorities often disregarding Supreme Court advisories to restrict outdoor activities during high pollution days.
• Pollution Sources: According to the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), transportation contributes 41% to Delhi-NCR’s pollution, followed by dust and construction (21%), industries (19%), power plants (5%), domestic sources (3%), and others (11%). Crop burning, though highly visible, affects the region for only a limited period annually.

Court’s Directives and Concerns:

• The Court urged that practical and enforceable measures must be devised, as mere orders without implementation lead to continued violations.
• It stressed the need for public awareness and proactive participation, highlighting that children’s health is directly compromised when pollution levels remain unchecked.
• The bench underscored the moral responsibility of citizens, particularly the affluent, to adopt cleaner practices, use low-emission vehicles, and reduce dependence on high-pollution devices.

Public Health Advisory:

Authorities and citizens are reminded that air pollution is a cumulative problem, stemming from vehicle emissions, construction dust, industrial waste, and domestic fuel usage. During winter, calm winds and higher humidity trap pollutants close to the ground, significantly deteriorating air quality and making breathing hazardous.

The Supreme Court’s observations serve as a wake-up call for Delhi-NCR residents, emphasizing that tackling air pollution requires collective responsibility, lifestyle changes, and strict adherence to environmental regulations.