The Bombay High Court, on Friday, changed its previous decision regarding the use of firecrackers during Diwali due to concerns about air pollution. The court now allows firecrackers to be burst only between 8 pm and 10 pm instead of the earlier allowed time of 7 pm to 10 pm. The Chief Justice emphasized that Mumbai should avoid becoming like Delhi in terms of air quality.
The court maintained its previous ban on vehicles carrying debris in the city but allowed those transporting construction materials if fully covered. These restrictions will continue until November 19, after which municipal corporations will decide based on the Air Quality Index (AQI) whether to permit vehicles carrying debris.
The court stressed the need for a study by experts to understand the causes of pollution, including whether there are chemical components contributing to respiratory illnesses. The court will continue to hear petitions on rising air pollution in Mumbai, with the next hearing scheduled for December 11.
During the hearing, the court acknowledged the recurring issue of air pollution and called for a study by experts to identify causes and mitigation measures. The court emphasized the importance of constant monitoring and suggested the formation of a committee with experts to address the situation.
The Advocate General representing the state government assured the court that sincere efforts were being made to improve AQI levels, partly due to recent rain spells. The court noted that the government and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) were fulfilling their duties but highlighted the need for ongoing efforts.
The BMC reported implementing pollution control guidelines but faced criticism from the court regarding the high number of sites not complying with norms. The court added a retired bureaucrat to the committee formed on November 6 to address environmental and air pollution issues.
In conclusion, the court expressed concerns about poor air quality in certain areas of the city, emphasizing the need for additional measures to address the emergent and drastic situation.
