Pollution levels in Delhi-NCR have once again reached dangerous levels. Considering the severe pollution situation, Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant has offered significant relief and advice to lawyers and litigants.

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Air quality in Delhi-NCR has reached the severe category. The rising AQI has made it difficult for people to breathe. On Sunday, the AQI in the capital was recorded at 461, the worst level of the season. The AQI was 432 the day before, and even today, the AQI remains above 400 in many areas. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s air quality continues to be in the severe category. Considering the situation, Chief Justice of India (CJI) Suryakant has offered significant relief and advice to lawyers and litigants.

Dangerous Air Creates Health Emergency
The CJI suggested that, given the current circumstances, lawyers and parties should argue their cases via video conferencing if possible. He advised lawyers and litigants to appear through a ‘hybrid mode’ for cases listed in the Supreme Court. This information was provided in a circular issued by the Supreme Court administration on Sunday.

Health experts have warned of serious health risks from the dangerous air. Earlier, on November 26, due to the extreme pollution, the CJI had considered ‘virtual’ hearings, citing feeling unwell.

GRAP Stage 4 Implemented in Delhi
On the other hand, to combat pollution, the government has implemented Stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), under which several restrictions have been imposed. In Gautam Buddh Nagar, classes up to the 5th grade have been moved online, and classes for 9th and 11th grades will be conducted in hybrid mode.

What restrictions are under GRAP-4?

• Entry of trucks is banned.
• BS-4 diesel vehicles are banned.
• BS-3 petrol vehicles are banned.
• Only vehicles providing essential services are exempted.
• All construction work is stopped.
• Stone crushing operations are ordered to be shut down.
• Classes up to 11th grade will run in hybrid mode.
• 50% work from home in offices.

Today, visibility was low in many parts of Delhi due to smog. Vehicles were moving very slowly on the roads. Barakhamba Road and Pandit Pant Marg recorded AQI levels of 474 and 417 respectively at 6 AM. Due to the dense fog, people were seen driving slowly with their headlights on in various parts of Delhi.