‘Move Supreme Court’: Delhi HC on Plea Seeking Urgent Action to Curb Air Pollution

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, advised the Greater Kailash-II Welfare Association to approach the Supreme Court with its plea seeking urgent directions to authorities for scientifically sound and effective measures to curb Delhi’s severe air pollution and improve the Air Quality Index (AQI).

The petition has been filed by a registered Residents’ Welfare Association of Greater Kailash–II, New Delhi, through Advocate Udian Sharma, stating that despite repeated administrative assurances, the situation has continued to deteriorate.

A bench comprising Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela noted that the Supreme Court is already monitoring Delhi’s pollution levels and has been issuing directions at regular intervals.

“We are not refusing to hear the matter, but our concern is that the issue of deteriorating air quality in Delhi is already before the Supreme Court. If we also continue simultaneously, would it not lead to two parallel proceedings?” the Bench remarked.

The Court added that, prima facie, entertaining the plea might result in overlapping proceedings, as the apex court is already seized of the issue.

In response, counsel for the petitioner informed the Court that they would either seek intervention before the Supreme Court or request clarity on whether the High Court may proceed with the petition.

Taking note of the submission, the Court adjourned the matter and listed it for further hearing in January.

The plea states: “Over the past several years (2019–2024), the ambient air quality in Delhi, particularly in GK-II, has deteriorated drastically, with AQI levels frequently entering the ‘very poor’, ‘severe’, and ‘hazardous’ categories, especially during winter months, resulting in persistent pollution-related health issues among residents, including children, senior citizens and persons with pre-existing ailments.

The petition further alleges that authorities have “failed to secure timely and effective enforcement of the prescribed steps, thereby allowing the aggravated situation to persist unabated.” Calling the worsening air quality an imminent public health emergency, it notes that AQI levels in parts of Delhi have frequently crossed 450–500 this winter, while key statutory obligations under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, the Environment (Protection) Act and GRAP remain unimplemented.

The petitioners add that they now want the government to adopt a structured, long-term plan. “Through this writ, we are asking the Court to direct the government to notify a clear Delhi Clean Air Protocol. The aim is to push for a coordinated, evidence-based response that residents can rely on,” the press note states.

Case Title: Greater Kailash-II Welfare Association Through its General Secretary: Mr. Sanjay Rana v. Government of NCT of Delhi & Ors

Bench: Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela

Hearing Date: December 3, 2025