Expressing its concern on the high pollution levels in the national capital, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) today slammed the Centre and states for inaction over the issue. The tribunal has prescribed a state of "environment emergency" subject to thresholds.
The NGT has said that if PM 10, PM 2.5 are in excess of 500, 300 respectively, a state of environment emergency should be declared. It directed emergency measures if pollution levels breach prescribed levels.
The NGT said in such emergency situation, a temporary shut down of thermal power plants and temporary closure of all construction activity in affected areas is necessary.
The state government has also been directed to reach out to corporates for discharge of CSR by collecting agricultural residue. The tribunal also reaffirmed the 10-year-old diesel ban order for NCT.
BAN ON DIESEL CARS
It also expressed its intent to expand scope of ban on diesel cars to neighbouring four states including Rajasthan, UP, Haryana and Punjab. The NGT has also directed all the four states to consider a policy banning 10-yr-old diesel vehicles.
It has been further recommended that a committee must be constituted involving central, state environment representatives to tackle crop burning and sources of pollution. The committee has been asked to submit a report on the same.
