CAQM Issues Directives to Curb Summer Wheat Stubble Burning in NCR Region
In a significant move to combat air pollution, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) for the National Capital Region (NCR) has issued a directive to three key states on Monday. The commission has called upon Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh to ensure a coordinated and time-bound implementation of comprehensive action plans aimed at preventing and eliminating wheat stubble burning during the upcoming summer harvest season.
First-Ever Summer Monitoring Initiative
This marks the first time that the CAQM will actively monitor stubble burning activities specifically during the summer months. Historically, attention has been focused on the post-monsoon paddy harvest, but recent data has prompted this expanded oversight. According to the commission, between April 1 and May 31 of last year, Punjab recorded a staggering 10,207 farm fires, while Haryana and the NCR districts of Uttar Pradesh reported 1,832 and 259 incidents, respectively. These agricultural residue burnings are a major contributor to localized pollution and have a detrimental impact on air quality across the entire NCR.
Key Components of the Action Plan
The detailed directions from CAQM encompass a multi-faceted approach to tackle this environmental challenge. The mandated measures include:
- Formation of a dedicated parali protection force to oversee and enforce compliance.
- Implementation of regular patrolling during late evening hours when burning activities are most likely to occur.
- Provision of adequate and appropriate storage facilities for wheat straw to discourage on-field burning.
- Ensuring the availability of Crop Residue Management (CRM) machines for farmers to facilitate alternative disposal methods.
- Establishment of a robust supply chain for wheat straw to promote its utilization in other industries, such as biomass energy or animal feed.
- Launching extensive awareness campaigns to educate farmers about the harmful effects of crop residue burning and the benefits of sustainable practices.
"Satellite-based monitoring during the wheat harvesting season has clearly highlighted the urgent need for targeted interventions in this period," stated the CAQM in its announcement. The commission emphasized that these efforts are crucial to mitigating the seasonal spike in air pollution levels.
Coordinated Efforts Across States
In addition to the primary directives for Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, the CAQM has also called for complementary efforts from Rajasthan and Delhi. This regional coordination is aimed at creating a unified front against stubble burning, ensuring that measures are not undermined by cross-border pollution. The initiative underscores a proactive shift in policy, moving beyond reactive measures to a more preventive and strategic approach in managing air quality throughout the year.
By addressing wheat stubble burning in the summer, the CAQM aims to reduce the cumulative burden of particulate matter and other pollutants, thereby safeguarding public health and improving the overall environmental conditions in one of India's most populous regions.
