Stubble Burning Reduced by 54.2%, But Pollution Levels in Delhi and NCR Remain Dangerous

While there has been a substantial reduction in stubble burning incidents in many states of northern India during the current paddy harvesting season, pollution levels in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) continue to remain at dangerous levels.

 

According to the latest data, the total number of stubble burning incidents in Haryana, Punjab, NCR-UP, NCR-Rajasthan, and Delhi decreased from 13,964 in the corresponding period in 2022 to 6,391 in 2023, marking a significant reduction of 54.2%. Compared to the same period in 2021, the reduction is 44.3%.

 

Punjab, one of the major contributors to stubble burning incidents, has reported a substantial drop in the number of farm fire events. In the last 45 days, the state has recorded 5,254 stubble burning incidents, compared to 12,112 in 2022 and 9,001 in 2021, marking a reduction of 56.6% and 41.6%, respectively.

 

Haryana, another key state affected by stubble burning, has also witnessed a significant decrease in incidents. During the same 45-day period, Haryana reported 1,094 stubble burning incidents, down from 1,813 in 2022 and 2,413 in 2021, showing reductions of 39.7% and 54.7%, respectively.

 

While the reduction in stubble burning incidents is promising, there has been a recent surge in Punjab, with 1,068 incidents recorded on October 29 alone. With the harvesting season expected to peak in the coming weeks, authorities have urged the state governments of Punjab and Haryana to mobilize their administrative machinery and take all necessary measures to control stubble burning.

 

The Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas (CAQM) is actively monitoring the situation, reviewing the implementation of action plans, and collaborating with state governments and authorities to curb the menace of stubble burning.

 

The Central Government has provided substantial funds for the Crop Residue Management Scheme and is actively procuring additional machines to facilitate in-situ and ex-situ management of paddy straw.

 

Despite the reduction in stubble burning incidents, the alarming pollution levels in Delhi and the NCR region underline the need for continued efforts to combat air pollution, particularly during the ongoing harvesting season.