Delhi is a gas chamber, says SC

The Supreme Court on Friday said Delhi was no longer a better place to live due to traffic congestion and growing air pollution making it like a gas chamber.

"In the morning and evening, there is so much pollution and traffic congestion. It is better not to be in Delhi. I do not wish to settle in Delhi. It is difficult to live in Delhi," Justice Arun Mishra said, hearing a matter related to air pollution in the National Capital Region.

The bench also comprising Justice Deepak Gupta said these problems affected the right to life.

Justice Mishra cited an example to explain the problem of traffic, saying he was stuck in traffic on Friday morning and could have missed the swearing-in of two judges at the apex court.

Advocate Aparajita Singh, assisting the court as an amicus curiae, told the bench that Delhi has become a "gas chamber" due to pollution. And Justice Gupta agreed, "Yes, it is like gas chamber."

Singh told the court that authorities always say they take measures to curb pollution but the reality is different. "We would like to understand," the bench said.

"What are the things which are required to be done in actuality? What remains to be done as per the comprehensive action plan? What is required to keep in check environment pollution in Delhi? What more can be done?" it said, adding, "implementation is definitely lacking".

The court asked the Delhi Police what action they have taken to remove unclaimed vehicles — that is no longer required in legal cases — from police stations. It also asked the Delhi government why they have not appointed district 'nazir' (record keeper of record-room).

The court posted the matter for further hearing on February 1.