Delhi chocked: Centre increases fines for stubble burning up to Rs 30,000 to fight pollution
Stubble burning: The Centre has raised penalties for farmers involved in crop stubble burning, with fines now reaching up to Rs 30,000, as part of intensified efforts to combat severe air pollution in Delhi and neighbouring regions. Effective immediately, the updated regulations state that farmers with less than two acres of land will incur a fine of Rs 5,000, those with two to five acres will face Rs 10,000, and farmers with more than five acres will be fined Rs 30,000.
This amendment falls under the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) Act of 2021 and is officially named the Commission for Air Quality Management in National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas (Imposition, Collection, and Utilisation of Environmental Compensation for Stubble Burning) Amendment Rules, 2024.
The decision to increase fines follows rap from the Supreme Court, which labelled earlier penalties as ineffective in curbing stubble burning. The apex court highlighted that the prior measures lacked proper enforcement due to delays in appointing adjudicating officers and establishing a regulatory framework.
Additionally, the Supreme Court had recently called out the Delhi Government for its inadequate implementation of the firecracker ban, directing city officials to provide an affidavit detailing enforcement actions. This move by the government comes as Delhi’s air quality has once again reached alarming levels, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) hitting 356, classified as 'very poor'. The deteriorating air quality has resulted in hazardous conditions, blanketing the capital in smog.
Under the new rules, pollution complaints will be managed by pollution control boards and the CAQM, which have been tasked with clear protocols for inquiries and grievance redressal.
These measures aim to tackle the recurring air pollution crisis and reduce the severe health and environmental impacts affecting millions each year.
- With inputs from agencies
