Air pollution: SC questions Delhi government over truck entry, to take call next week on removal of GRAP-4 curbs | India News – Times of India

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Friday questioned the Delhi government’s efforts to restrict entry of trucks into the city amid alarming pollution levels. The court suggested deploying police personnel at 113 identified entry points to ensure strict enforcement of the Phase 4 measures of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), including banning trucks from entering the capital.
“It is very difficult for us to conclude that the entry of trucks has been stopped,” the bench said. The bank said 100 access points are unmanned, and no one can inspect truck entry.
The counsel for the Delhi government said there are 113 entry points into the city, of which 13 are for freight traffic.
The Supreme Court has also appointed thirteen young lawyers as commissioners to inspect these points and assess compliance with the measures.
The Supreme Court said it will consider next week whether the GRAP-4 Restrictions must be relaxed. It added that the consequences of GRAP-4 are serious and could adversely affect various sections of society.
Delhi’s air quality remained in the ‘very poor’ category with the Air Quality Index (AQI) standing at 373 on Friday, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Some areas like Sonia Vihar reported an AQI of 400, teetering on the edge of the ‘severe’ category.
Earlier this week, the court reprimanded the Delhi government for delays in implementing GRAP Stage 4 despite persistent pollution. The bank emphasized that these measures would remain in place until further notice, regardless of fluctuations in air quality. The court had also criticized the Center and neighboring states for inadequate coordination and enforcement, stressing the urgent need for collective action to tackle the crisis.