Chandigarh, Dec. 19 -- The Punjab State & Chandigarh Human Rights Commission (PSHRC) has taken suo motu cognisance of the sharp deterioration of air quality in Chandigarh, with AQI touching the 'severe' category in certain areas. The commission noted that AQI levels crossed 400 in parts of the city, particularly around Sector 22, while several other areas recorded air quality in the 'very poor' category for prolonged hours. PSHRC observed that such levels of air pollution pose a serious threat to public health, especially to children, senior citizens, pregnant women and persons suffering from respiratory and cardiac ailments. Taking a strong view, the commission observed that the Right to Life under Article 21 of the Constitution of India includes the right to live in a clean and pollution-free environment, and any prolonged exposure to hazardous air quality amounts to a violation of basic human rights. The human rights body also took note of the fact that while extensive measures have been ordered and enforced in NCR Delhi, including vehicular restrictions, traffic regulation and the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) pursuant to directions of the Supreme Court of India, the absence of comparable visible action in Chandigarh raises serious concerns regarding administrative preparedness and response. Accordingly, the commission has called for a detailed action taken report from the Chandigarh Pollution Control Committee (CPCC) regarding the steps taken to control air pollution, the existence and enforcement of any structured response mechanism, and measures adopted to protect vulnerable sections of society. CPCC chairman has been directed to personally ensure effective monitoring and implementation of pollution control measures and to submit a comprehensive status and compliance report to the commission. The matter is listed for further consideration on December 23.htc...