Flying Squads Deployed to Combat Stubble Burning in Punjab and Haryana

In response to increasing incidents of paddy stubble burning, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has deployed 'flying squads' in Punjab and Haryana. These squads will monitor and report on the situation daily. This initiative follows criticism from the Supreme Court over ineffective measures to curb air pollution.

In response to the stubble burning season, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has deployed 'flying squads' across several districts of Haryana and Punjab. These squads are tasked with monitoring and reporting daily on paddy stubble burning incidents to the Commission and the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), according to the Ministry of Environment.

The move comes days after the Supreme Court criticized the CAQM for failing to take effective measures to curb air pollution in the National Capital Region (NCR), acting only as a 'silent spectator.' Recent data from Punjab and Haryana showed a stark increase in stubble burning cases compared to last year, raising alarms as another Delhi winter approaches.

The Ministry of Environment stated that CPCB-assisted flying squads have been assigned to hotspot districts in Punjab and Haryana from October 1 to November 30, 2024, where stubble burning is more prevalent. Sixteen districts in Punjab, including Amritsar, Ludhiana, and Patiala, and ten districts in Haryana, like Ambala and Sirsa, are being monitored. The squads will report daily to both the CAQM and CPCB, coordinating closely with local authorities to mitigate further incidents.

Additionally, CAQM plans to establish a 'Paddy Stubble Management' Cell in Mohali/Chandigarh during the paddy-harvesting season. This cell will work closely with state agriculture departments and other agencies to control the situation. Stubble burning is a significant issue in Delhi as it drastically reduces air quality, leading to smog and severe health risks for residents.

(With inputs from agencies.)