November 4, 2024: In a stark reprimand of the Delhi government's efforts to curb pollution following Diwali celebrations, the Supreme Court has issued a notice to the city's top police officer, highlighting the inadequate enforcement of the firecracker ban. The court expressed concern over the alarming levels of air pollution recorded in the capital post-Diwali, which earned Delhi the grim title of the world's most polluted city on November 1.

The Supreme Court's intervention comes in light of a report indicating that pollution levels this year reached an all-time high, surpassing figures from the previous two years. The court has mandated that both the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government and Delhi Police Commissioner submit affidavits within one week. These affidavits must detail the actions taken to enforce the firecracker ban this year and outline plans to enhance compliance in future years.

The court also noted a troubling rise in instances of stubble burning in the region around Diwali, contributing significantly to the deteriorating air quality. In response, the Supreme Court has requested the Punjab and Haryana governments to provide affidavits detailing the occurrences of stubble burning over the last ten days of October. Additionally, the Delhi government has been asked to report any farm fires within its jurisdiction during the same timeframe.

As hazardous PM2.5 concentration levels soared, public health concerns mounted, particularly for those with respiratory conditions. The Supreme Court's scrutiny underscores the urgent need for effective measures to combat pollution in one of the world’s most densely populated cities, as residents grapple with the ongoing health implications of poor air quality.