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Published 16:29 IST, November 15th 2019

Air pollution in Delhi-NCR: SC summons chief secretaries of Punjab, Haryana, UP, Delhi

The SC on Friday summoned chief secretaries of Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi to know about steps taken by them to reduce air pollution in Delhi-NCR

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The Supreme Court on Friday summoned chief secretaries of Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi to know about steps taken by them to reduce air pollution in Delhi-NCR. A bench of justices Arun Mishra and Deepak Gupta said effective steps must be taken and 13 pollution hotspots in Delhi should be cleared of pollutants.

Supreme Court expressed concern

The apex court questioned the Delhi Government over granting exemptions, including to 2- and 3-wheelers, during its odd-even scheme and said that pollution level in Delhi is increasing in spite of the vehicle rotation scheme being in force. It also expressed concern that despite the reduction in stubble burning, pollution levels in Delhi are worse.

READ | Delhi: Toxic air affecting the underprivileged children on the streets

READ | Delhi NGO faces flak for organising marathon for children in Delhi amid severe pollution

Delhi Govt says odd-even helped in reducing pollution

The Delhi government told the top court that its odd-even scheme has helped in reducing pollution and the "real culprit" behind the region's pollution is stubble burning. The Centre also told the bench that it is examining the feasibility of putting up smog towers to reduce pollution in Delhi.

READ | Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal: 'Decision on extending Odd-Even scheme on November 18'

READ | Delhi-NCR continue to battle air pollution, AQI hovers around 482 in capital

15:50 IST, November 15th 2019