Delhi’s smog stays put even as stubble smoke fades
The 24-hour average Air Quality Index stood at 382, according to the Central Pollution Control Board, driven largely by high PM2.5 levels.
The 24-hour average Air Quality Index stood at 382, according to the Central Pollution Control Board, driven largely by high PM2.5 levels.
The Delhi Chief Minister expressed hope that all neighbouring states, especially Punjab and Haryana, would extend stronger cooperation to ensure cleaner air for Delhi.
A Bench of Justice Pamidighantam Sri Narasimha and Justice Atul S. Chandurkar said, “Situation is very very serious! Why are you all appearing here? We have the virtual hearing facility. Please avail it. This pollution will cause permanent damage.”
Due to the state government's proactive efforts, farmers are now turning to alternative methods of crop residue management.
Delhi woke up to thick smog on Thursday as air quality slipped deep into the ‘Severe’ zone. From Daryaganj and Chandni Chowk to Anand Vihar and Bawana, visibility dropped sharply as AQI crossed 450 in several areas, raising health concerns for commuters.
The CM highlighted that stubble burning pollutes the environment and poses serious public health risks, urging farmers to adopt alternative methods for crop residue management.
Recognising “paddy stubble burning as a matter of grave concern impacting the air quality in NCR”, the commission urged stricter enforcement measures against violators in a recent order released earlier this week.
According to the CAQM, flying squad teams will be deputed in these states for monitoring progress at field level in the hotspot districts.
Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar on Saturday pointed out that the national capital suffers every year due to situations arising of the stubble burning and called for finding a systemic solution to tackle it.
Punjab Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian said that a total of 4,132 farm fires have been reported till date as compared to 12,813 during the same period last year.
