Stubble Burning: CAQM Authorizes DMs in NCR to Prosecute Officials Ignoring Air Quality Regulations

Paddy stubble burning continues to be a pressing environmental concern, with severe implications for air quality in the National Capital Region (NCR). Despite ongoing efforts, recent reports indicate that 267 and 187 paddy residue burning incidents have been recorded in Punjab and Haryana, respectively, between September 15 and October 9, 2024.

This persistent issue has been at the center of discussions involving multiple stakeholders, including state governments of Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, the Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD), various State Pollution Control Boards, and knowledge institutions. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), which has been spearheading these consultations, has actively updated its action plans for 2024 based on field learnings from 2021, 2022, and 2023. These plans aim for the complete elimination of stubble burning practices during the paddy harvest season.

In light of the latest data, CAQM is taking stricter steps to ensure better implementation of these action plans. Under Section 14 of the CAQM Act 2021, the Commission has granted Deputy Commissioners, District Collectors, and District Magistrates in Punjab, Haryana, NCR regions of Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi the authority to file complaints or prosecute officials who fail to enforce measures against stubble burning. This includes nodal officers, supervisory officers, and Station House Officers (SHOs) who are responsible for executing enforcement measures in their respective areas.

The CAQM has also called upon state governments and district administrations to enhance their efforts, maintaining strict oversight to prevent any further stubble burning incidents during the harvest season. A significant part of the strategy includes the deployment of 26 central teams to monitor hotspot districts in Punjab and Haryana. These teams will work closely with district authorities to optimize the use of resources for in situ and ex situ stubble management applications. Additionally, the CAQM has established a “Paddy Stubble Management Cell” in Chandigarh for real-time monitoring and coordination of field-level actions.

The situation underscores the urgency of finding sustainable alternatives to this agricultural practice, which remains a significant contributor to NCR's declining air quality each winter. Continued vigilance and effective enforcement will be crucial in mitigating its environmental impact.

With efforts ramping up across various levels of governance, it remains to be seen whether these measures will bring the desired results and reduce the burden of air pollution in the NCR during this critical period.