With the commencement of the paddy harvesting season, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has ramped up efforts to combat stubble burning by deploying special flying squads across 34 vulnerable districts in Punjab and Haryana. This proactive measure aims to monitor ground realities strictly and mitigate the severe air pollution crisis typically witnessed during the winter months in northern India.
Intensive Monitoring from October 1 to November 30
According to official details, the flying squads have been deployed in 18 districts of Punjab and 16 districts of Haryana. Operating continuously from October 1 to November 30, these teams are tasked with patrolling agricultural fields to prevent farmers from resorting to stubble burning as a quick clearance method after harvesting.
The squads will work in close coordination with local district authorities, state pollution control boards, and local enforcement agencies. Daily reports detailing the ground situation, incidents of stubble burning, and corrective actions taken will be submitted directly to the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM).
Addressing the Delhi-NCR Pollution Concern
Stubble smoke, when carried by wind currents, significantly deteriorates the air quality index (AQI) in the Delhi-NCR region during colder months. While stubble burning is a major contributor, authorities are simultaneously tightening controls on vehicular emissions, industrial pollution, construction dust, and road dust as part of a comprehensive strategy to clean up the regional air.
This report is based on official updates regarding environmental enforcement measures. 'The Freelance' maintains journalistic objectivity in presenting these facts. Photo/Source Credit: CPCB / Official Handouts.
