Stubble burning: Cases continue to surge in Punjab;, Chandigarh in ‘red zone’ for poor air quality
CM city Sangrur leads with 887 cases registered | Central team to visit Punjab on Nov 13 to evaluate stubble management efforts
Stubble burning: The incidence of stubble burning in Punjab continues to rise, adversely affecting air quality in both Punjab and its neighbouring city, Chandigarh. As of now, 5,299 cases of stubble burning have been recorded in the state, with 3,162 of these reported in just the past 10 days. Despite stringent measures, the authorities are finding it difficult to curb this meance. Amid the crisis, a central team is set to visit Punjab on November 13 to assess the situation and the measures in place.
On the other hand, the persistent issue of stubble burning has pushed Chandigarh into the ‘red zone’ for air quality. Five districts in Punjab have also been placed under an ‘orange alert.’ On Saturday, the air quality index (AQI) in Chandigarh reached 325 at midnight, peaking at 408. In Punjab, Mandi Gobindgarh reported an AQI of 280 on average, with a peak level of 360. Amritsar recorded an AQI of 240, which rose to a maximum of 312. Other significant readings included Bathinda with an average AQI of 170, Jalandhar at 173, Khanna at 202, Ludhiana at 216, Patiala at 148, and Ropar at 225.
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In response to Supreme Court directives, a central team is set to visit Punjab on November 13 to evaluate stubble management efforts. This committee will liaise with the pollution control board, environmental agencies, and the agriculture department to review their strategies and effectiveness in mitigating the issue. Despite increased enforcement, stubble burning incidents remain high in the region, particularly in Sangrur, which leads with 887 cases registered. Amritsar follows with 633 cases, while Tarn Taran has reported 612 cases.
The meteorological department predicts little hope for relief for Punjab. According to the Meteorological Department, there are no signs of rainfall in the coming days. This lack of precipitation, coupled with continued pollution, has worsened the heat and smog conditions. The minimum temperature in Punjab currently stands at 5.8 degrees below the seasonal norm.