A division bench led by Chief Justice Shree Chandrashekhar clarified that the court was not criticising any authority, but was acting to ensure that residents can breathe clean air
The court noted that air pollution in Mumbai had not reduced and was reported to be very severe in December. Representational Pic/File
The Bombay High Court on Thursday announced plans to establish a high-powered committee to oversee the implementation of measures aimed at combating air pollution in the Mumbai region, stating that the efforts made so far by state and civic authorities have been inadequate, reported the PTI.
A division bench led by Chief Justice Shree Chandrashekhar clarified that the court was not criticising any authority, but was acting to ensure that residents can breathe clean air.
The bench noted that it had taken suo motu cognisance in October 2023 of rising pollution levels in the metropolis, which fluctuated across categories from good to severe.
On November 6, 2023, the court issued directions and suggested measures for the short, medium and long term.
However, the bench observed that it has repeatedly expressed dissatisfaction with the actions taken by the Mumbai and Navi Mumbai civic bodies, as well as the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB).
The court remarked that the MPCB appeared to be “sailing on its affidavits”, with the measures claimed to have been taken deemed insufficient.
Pollution levels remain high
The court noted that air pollution in Mumbai had not reduced and was reported to be very severe in December.
“We have apprised ourselves of the previous orders, and find that compliances so far made by (municipal) corporations and MPCB are not sufficient and satisfactory,” the bench stated.
It added that even if authorities had taken serious steps, their results were not visible.
Court forms high-powered committee
Due to the rising number of dockets and limited time, the court said it was unable to examine all affidavits filed by municipal corporations and the MPCB, or reports submitted by an expert committee formed in 2023.
After hearing all parties, the high court decided to establish a high-powered committee, headed by a former Supreme Court judge, to monitor compliance with air pollution control measures in Mumbai and surrounding areas.
The court directed that the committee should meet daily, and that its members should be provided with necessary facilities.
Possible compensation for affected citizens
The HC bench also referred to a suggestion that citizens affected by pollution should be compensated.
When the lawyer for the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation noted that existing statutory bodies were responsible for such matters, the court responded that it had seen no evidence of action by these bodies in the current proceedings.
The court indicated it was inclined to grant some powers to the committee.
The final names of committee members are expected to be announced in the court’s written order.
(with PTI inputs)
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