Home / Environment / 40-Year Delhi Pollution Case Closes, Legacy Lives On
40-Year Delhi Pollution Case Closes, Legacy Lives On
13 Mar
Summary
- Court-monitored intervention transformed Delhi's bus fleet to CNG.
- Environmental Protection Authority created, compensation charge imposed.
- Pioneering efforts laid foundation for clean air in Delhi-NCR.
A pivotal environmental case, initiated nearly four decades ago, has concluded with the Supreme Court closing proceedings. This long-standing petition, WP(C) No. 13029/1985, has been instrumental in driving significant improvements in urban air quality globally.
Over its nearly 40-year span, the case yielded critical orders, including the conversion of Delhi's entire bus fleet to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG). It also saw the phasing out of leaded petrol and the establishment of the Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPCA).
Further directives from the court included imposing an environment compensation charge on trucks entering the National Capital Region (NCR) and setting regulations for firecracker usage across the NCR. Environmental lawyer M.C. Mehta, who spearheaded the petition, expressed hope that the progress made would be sustained.
The case's influence extends beyond Delhi, having spurred action on issues like the Taj Mahal's protection from industrial pollution and the cleanup of the Ganga River. Mehta's work has been recognized with prestigious awards, including the Goldman Environmental Prize and the Ramon Magsaysay Award.
Experts acknowledge the case's milestone status in accelerating policy action for clean air in Delhi-NCR. However, some note that environmental improvements have been challenged by the resurgence of vehicular and industrial emissions in recent years, underscoring the need for continued vigilance.
