2 day lockdown in Delhi ? Supreme Court asks Centre for Delhi Air Emergency plan

India's Supreme Court took a serious look at the severe pollution engulfing DelhiNCR on Saturday and asked the Center to consider declaring a two-day lockdown to tackle air pollution. The court asked the government to consider immediate measures to reduce pollution in DelhiNCR from current "severe" levels.

Tell us how we can reduce the AQI of 500 by at least 200 points. Take urgent action. Can you think of a two day block or something like that? How can people live? in two to three days the pollution should decrease, ”said the court at the center. People are forced to wear masks even in their homes, he noted.

The apex court said stubble burning should be tackled during a exceedingly|in a very} long measure, but, emergency measures are to be taken without delay. "Air quality in Delhi is in the 'severe' category and in another two to three days it will dip further. Take an emergency decision. we are going to check out a long-term resolution later," the court directed the government.

The court asked the Centre to ask Punjab and Haryana to prevent stubble burning for a minimum of 2 days to bring down pollution as Solicitor-General Tushar Mehta said that the case might not improve until November 17.Meanwhile, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal has referred to as an emergency meeting today to tackle air pollution. Deputy CM Manish Sisodia, health minister Satyendar Jain, environment minister Gopal Rai and Delhi Chief Secretary will participate within the meeting.