Delhi’s air quality has once again reached alarming levels, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) climbing above 400 in multiple monitoring stations on Thursday morning, placing the national capital firmly in the ‘severe’ category. The persistent smog and toxic air have drawn the attention of the Supreme Court, with Justice P.S. Narsimha expressing concern over the health risks posed to lawyers and citizens alike.

During Thursday’s hearing, Justice Narsimha questioned why lawyers were physically appearing in court amid such hazardous air conditions, pointing out that the Supreme Court provides a virtual hearing facility. “Why are you all appearing here? We have a virtual hearing facility. Please avail it. The pollution – this will cause permanent damage,” the judge cautioned senior advocates in the courtroom.

Senior advocate Kapil Sibal responded that many lawyers were wearing masks to protect themselves, but Justice Narsimha warned that even masks might not be sufficient against the toxic air. “Even masks are not enough. It will not suffice. We will discuss with the Chief Justice as well,” he added, emphasizing the serious health hazards posed by prolonged exposure to the current air quality.

Data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) indicated that the worst pollution was recorded at Bawana, where the AQI stood at 460 at 8 am, while the lowest reading in Delhi was 216 at NSIT Dwarka. Areas around India Gate and Kartavya Path were enveloped in dense smog, with the AQI at 396, falling in the ‘very poor’ category. On Wednesday evening, the average AQI for Delhi was recorded at 418, reflecting the ongoing deterioration of air quality despite government interventions.

The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-III) is currently in effect across Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR), but its measures have so far struggled to curb the pollution. Among the major contributors, vehicular emissions continue to dominate PM2.5 levels, according to the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM). The Commission also highlighted paddy stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana as a recurring concern, noting that farm fires contribute between 10% and sometimes up to 30% of Delhi’s air pollution during peak periods.

Earlier on Wednesday, the Supreme Court directed the governments of Punjab and Haryana to submit a status report detailing the steps taken to control stubble burning. The persistent practice of burning crop residue in the northern states continues to exacerbate Delhi’s already severe air pollution, creating health hazards for residents and workers exposed to the toxic mix of particulate matter.

The warning from Justice Narsimha underscores the urgent need for both preventive measures and behavioral changes. Legal experts and citizens alike are being urged to minimize outdoor exposure and utilize remote participation wherever possible, as even high-quality masks may not offer full protection against the ultra-fine particulate matter present in the air.

As Delhi grapples with record-breaking pollution levels, the Supreme Court’s intervention serves as a stark reminder of the health and environmental crises looming over the capital, highlighting the need for immediate action from both state authorities and the public.