During the hearing of the case on Wednesday, the Court granted an additional week to the Delhi government to release the funds for the remaining corridors of the Rapid Rail project in the National Capital Region, or risk having its advertisement budget attached.
This was after Senior Advocate S Muralidhar, appearing for the Delhi government, informed that the necessary budgetary provisions for the same have been made.
However, the release of the funds awaits the Central government’s approval, he added, which the bench did not find force in.
“These are new excuses. We are not afraid to pass tough orders. If you do not pay, why will even other States pay. Mr Muralidhar, you will make me reactivate my earlier order (of attaching Delhi government’s advertisement budget),” Justice Kaul remarked.
The bench then proceeded to urge the Punjab government and concerned authorities (including the Commission for Air Quality Management) to file updated compliance reports on the issue of air pollution in Delhi.
It then posted the case for hearing on February 27, 2024.
Attorney General R Venkataramani appeared for the Central government.
Source: Barandbench
