Planting Trees Key To Delhi’s Clean Air Future, Says Supreme Court

Delhi’s air pollution crisis has been a recurring concern, with smog, vehicular emissions, and construction dust contributing to hazardous AQI levels. On February 20, 2026, the Supreme Court stressed that planting trees is the most effective way to restore ecological balance and ensure cleaner air for residents.  

Chief Justice Surya Kant highlighted that while short-term measures like curbing emissions and regulating construction are necessary, they cannot replace the long-term benefits of afforestation. Trees act as natural air purifiers, absorbing pollutants and releasing oxygen, thereby improving AQI sustainably.  

The Court also addressed petitions regarding deforestation in Delhi’s ridge areas, urging authorities to prioritize afforestation drives and protect existing green zones. This ruling reinforces the judiciary’s role in pushing for environmental accountability and long-term ecological planning.  

Key Highlights  

• Supreme Court calls tree planting the only sustainable solution  
• Chief Justice Surya Kant emphasized long-term benefits of green cover  
• Delhi’s worsening AQI requires urgent ecological measures  
• Court urged protection of ridge areas and afforestation drives  
• Judiciary reinforces environmental accountability in policy decisions  

Sources: CNBC TV18, MSN News, Hindustan Times