Supreme Court Mandates Urgent Measures to Prevent Winter Air Pollution Surge

The Supreme Court has issued a directive to the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), and other state pollution control boards to establish measures to combat air pollution. This initiative comes ahead of the winter season, a period characterized by heightened pollution levels.

Amidst a suo motu plea concerning vacancies in these environmental agencies, the court reprimanded the bodies for their sluggish response to filling these critical roles. The court urges swift action due to the severe environmental crises exacerbated by workforce shortages during peak pollution periods.

With numerous vacancies remaining unfulfilled across pollution boards in key states such as Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan, the Supreme Court has underscored the importance of immediate appointment, either through deputation or contracts, to enhance regulatory efficiency and combat the anticipated winter pollution challenges.

(With inputs from agencies.)