Delhi pollution very serious, even masks are not enough: Top Court

As the national capital continues to battle alarming levels of air pollution, the Supreme Court on Thursday expressed grave concern over the deteriorating air quality in Delhi, noting that the situation was “very serious”.

- AIMAN FATIMA

The Bench of Justices P S Narasimha and Atul S Chandurkar observed that even wearing masks offers little protection from the hazardous air, urging lawyers to appear for hearings virtually instead of attending court in person.

“The situation is very, very serious! Why are you all appearing here? We have the virtual hearing facility. Please avail it. This pollution will cause permanent damage,” Justice Narasimha remarked. The comment came after Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal pointed out that most lawyers were wearing masks in the courtroom. “Even masks are not enough. It will not suffice” Justice Narasimha responded, adding that the Bench would discuss the issue with the Chief Justice of India.