M.C. Mehta vs Union Of India And Ors

The Supreme Court emphasized the State's duty under Article 39(e), 47, and 48A to protect public health and the environment, highlighting the failure of enforcement agencies to control air pollution in Delhi. The Court directed the Delhi Administration to take specific measures to reduce pollution, including lowering sulphur content in diesel and phasing out old vehicles. The establishment of the Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, was affirmed, with the Court reiterating the binding nature of its directions on pollution control.