Physical Address
23,24,25 & 26, 2nd Floor, Software Technology Park India, Opp: Garware Stadium,MIDC, Chikalthana, Aurangabad, Maharashtra – 431001 India
As Delhi’s air quality deteriorates, the neighbouring states Punjab and Haryana take most of the blame year after year due to stubble burning. However, a recent study reveals that stubble burning occurs more extensively in Madhya Pradesh than in these neighbouring states.
According to the latest report from the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), Madhya Pradesh recorded the most stubble-burning incidents last week, with 536 cases reported between October 19 and October 25. During the same period, Punjab reported 401 incidents, while Haryana had significantly fewer, with 192 cases.
The IARI report suggests that stubble burning is becoming more severe in Madhya Pradesh than in Punjab and Haryana. Additionally, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan reported higher incident counts than Haryana, with Uttar Pradesh matching Haryana’s 192 cases and Rajasthan reporting 203 incidents.
Government data also shows that stubble-burning incidents have decreased by 35 per cent in Punjab and 21 per cent in Haryana from last year, with overall incidents down by 51 per cent since 2017.
Stubble burning, the practice of setting fire to crop residue after harvest, remains a significant environmental challenge in North India, particularly in states like Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. Farmers often burn leftover paddy stubble to quickly prepare their fields for the next crop season, as it is a faster and more economical method than manual or mechanical clearing. However, this practice releases large amounts of smoke and particulate matter into the atmosphere, contributing to poor air quality in the region.
The effects of stubble burning are far-reaching. The smoke contains fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and various gases like carbon monoxide, methane, and nitrogen oxides, boosting respiratory issues and other health problems in urban and rural populations. During the winter, air quality deteriorates sharply across northern India. Delhi often experiences the worst pollution levels due to its proximity to these burning fields and meteorological conditions that trap pollutants near the ground. The environmental impact is also severe, with stubble burning releasing large amounts of carbon dioxide, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change.
To mitigate the harmful effects of stubble burning, the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) has been implemented in Delhi and surrounding areas. It includes measures to control emissions during high pollution periods, addressing various sources, including stubble burning. The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has deployed 372 surveillance teams, 1,295 officers, and a fleet of anti-smog guns to monitor and curb pollution. The plan includes increased street sweeping with mechanical tools and water sprinklers to reduce dust and pollutants. Supported by a workforce of 57,000 and advanced equipment, street maintenance efforts are being intensified for timely action. High-risk areas identified by the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) are under constant watch to ensure compliance with the GRAP guidelines.
Although air quality in Delhi has slightly improved recently, pollution levels are predicted to increase, potentially reaching an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 400 by October 31, according to the Air Quality Early Warning System.
Also Read:
SC raps Delhi air quality panel as stubble burning already starts breaking records
Can Cloud Seeding Provide Relief from Delhi’s Pollution?
The overlooked ‘environmental backstory’ behind the farmer protests
Delhi’s ongoing battle with Air Quality: Navigating the annual Smog challenge
References:
Banner Image: Photo by Ravi Sharma on Unsplash
