SC defers lifting construction ban in Delhi

The Supreme Court has slammed the authorities for failing to curb air pollution, especially in Delhi where the air quality index has been consistently poor or in the severe range post Diwali. The apex court though made an exception when it came to construction activity for the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) at the Pragati Maidan, where the Trade Fair draws huge crowds. Earlier this week during the hearing on air pollution matter, the apex court termed Delhi "worse than hell" in the backdrop of pollution (air, water and garbage) in the city. At the end of the hearing, the Centre requested a bench headed by Justice Arun Mishra to allow limited construction activity at the ITPO, to make the area ready for exhibition. The Centre assured that no pollution shall be permitted to be caused by the activity, following which the top court permitted the one-of request with certain riders. This direction is in sharp contrast to the principled position taken by the apex court, where it ordered zero-tolerance to any activity contributing to air pollution.