Delhi’s Air Quality Panel Takes Action Against Stubble Burning in Punjab and Haryana
As the burning of crop residue increases, the air quality panel of the central government has empowered district authorities in states around Delhi to take legal action against officials who fail to enforce stubble burning laws. From September 15 to October 9, 2024, Punjab reported 267 incidents of paddy residue burning, while Haryana reported 187, according to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in the National Capital Region (NCR) and nearby areas has deployed 26 central teams to key districts in Punjab and Haryana. These teams will work closely with local authorities to monitor and manage the situation. A special cell has been established in Chandigarh for ongoing oversight and coordination.
District administrations and state governments have been instructed to remain vigilant during the harvest season to prevent stubble burning. The CAQM, responsible for monitoring pollution in Delhi and surrounding areas, has highlighted the issue as a major concern. The burning of crop residue in neighboring states contributes significantly to pollution, leading to poor air quality and health risks for residents.
The CAQM has authorized local officials in Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi to file complaints against those who do not enforce stubble burning laws. This move aims to ensure effective implementation of action plans at the local level. The CAQM has also set up a “Paddy Stubble Management Cell” in Chandigarh to oversee field-level actions and optimize resource use for managing crop residue.
Last month, the Supreme Court criticized the CAQM for not taking sufficient measures to address air pollution in the NCR, urging them to act more decisively.
Doubts Revealed
Air Quality Panel -: An air quality panel is a group of experts who work to keep the air clean and safe to breathe. They make rules and take actions to reduce pollution.
Stubble Burning -: Stubble burning is when farmers set fire to the leftover stalks of crops, like rice, after harvesting. This practice creates a lot of smoke and pollution.
Punjab and Haryana -: Punjab and Haryana are two states in northern India. They are known for farming, especially growing rice and wheat.
Prosecute -: To prosecute means to take legal action against someone for breaking the law. In this context, it means punishing officials who don’t stop stubble burning.
Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) -: The CAQM is a government body in India that works to improve air quality. They make plans and rules to reduce pollution in the air.
Chandigarh -: Chandigarh is a city in India that serves as the capital of both Punjab and Haryana. It is known for its modern architecture and is a hub for government activities.
