Patna High Court Intervenes Over Deteriorating Air Quality in State Capital
The Patna High Court has expressed serious concern regarding the escalating air quality index (AQI) in Patna and its surrounding suburban areas. On Thursday, the court issued directives to the state government and its pollution control authorities, demanding comprehensive details on the officers and agencies responsible for implementing air pollution control regulations. This includes specific enforcement of restrictions on diesel vehicles that are aged 15 years and above.
Judicial Scrutiny Based on Alarming Pollution Data
A division bench, led by Chief Justice Sangam Kumar Sahoo and Justice Alok Kumar Sinha, was hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) initiated suo motu. This legal action was prompted by a Times of India news report from December 14, 2022, titled "Bihar's 10 cities record country's worst AQI." The report highlighted that ten cities in Bihar had recorded AQI levels exceeding 400, with Darbhanga reaching a peak of 473, while New Delhi registered 174 on the same day. Taking judicial notice of these findings, the bench, which included the then chief justice and Justice Partha Sarthy, commenced hearings on December 15, 2022.
Pollution Control Board's Interim Findings and Court Observations
During the proceedings, BSPCB counsel Abhineet Prakash informed the court that an interim study report on the causes and remedial measures for the rising AQI in Bihar has been prepared and is awaiting board approval. This report identified road dust and vehicular emissions as the two primary contributors to increasing pollution levels in Patna and its adjoining suburbs. The judges critically observed, "Though plying of diesel vehicles aged 15 years and more have been restricted by state directives, yet the same does not seem to have been implemented in true letter and spirit."
Immediate Actions and Future Hearings
At approximately 12:10 PM on Thursday, the bench requested the current AQI of Patna, which was reported as 209. Describing this as seriously poor air quality affecting over 10 lakh residents, the court mandated authorities to submit a detailed report on the implementation of pollution control norms. Additionally, the court appointed advocate Amish, who assists Advocate General P K Shahi, as amicus curiae to aid in the case. The matter is scheduled for further hearing on March 13, underscoring the court's ongoing commitment to addressing this environmental crisis.
