## Stubble Burning Decreases, But Delhi’s Air Quality Remains ‘Very Poor’: A Complex Picture Emerges
While the number of stubble burning incidents in Punjab and Haryana has decreased compared to previous years, Delhi’s air quality continues to face seasonal challenges. On Wednesday, October 23, the national capital recorded a ‘very poor’ air quality index (AQI) of 349, according to SAFAR-India, the pollution monitoring agency of the Union Ministry of Earth Science.
A new study by Climate Trends provides further insights into the situation. Between 2019 and 2023, both Punjab and Haryana – key regions for stubble burning – witnessed fluctuations in fire incidents, with significant reductions in 2022 and 2023. The study, utilizing satellite data, monitored fire incidents and correlated them with air quality trends in 11 NCR cities between September 1 and December 31 over the years mentioned.
Decreased Fire Counts, Yet Challenges Remain
Haryana’s fire counts decreased from 14,122 in 2019 to 7,959 in 2023, while Punjab witnessed a peak of 95,048 in 2020 before dropping to 52,722 by 2023. Districts like Karnal and Kaithal saw remarkable decreases of 86% and 78% respectively. However, areas like Gurgaon, Mewat, and Jhajjar saw an increase in fire incidents.
Despite the overall reduction in fire incidents, the study highlights that Delhi’s air quality was significantly affected by these fires. “Fire incidents in Punjab and Haryana contributed to a 103-unit increase in Delhi’s AQI, underscoring the urgent need for coordinated fire management and air quality interventions across states,” the study states.
A Multi-Faceted Problem
While stubble burning has seen a decrease, the study emphasizes the importance of addressing other pollution sources. Dr Sagnik Dey, Professor, Centre for Atmospheric Sciences, IIT Delhi, stated, “While the farm fires have seen a dip in numbers, we must also focus on the other sources.”
The report calls for measures to reduce stubble burning, enhance public awareness, and invest in cleaner agricultural technologies. Furthermore, it emphasizes the need for improved agricultural practices, enhanced satellite monitoring, and stricter enforcement of fire-prevention measures to tackle the seasonal air pollution peaks.
A Complex Interplay of Factors
The study highlights the complex interplay of factors contributing to Delhi’s air quality, indicating that simply addressing stubble burning might not be sufficient. The AQI on days without fires averaged 175 (Moderate category) in Delhi. However, during the stubble burning season, this figure surged to 233 (Poor category), and when fire counts exceeded climatological averages, the AQI peaked at 337 (Very Poor category).
The situation also underscores the need for coordinated efforts across states to address air quality issues. The political blame game, as seen with the recent statements by Delhi Chief Minister Atishi, further highlights the need for collaborative action to effectively tackle the problem.
This study provides valuable data and insights, emphasizing the need for comprehensive strategies to address air pollution in Delhi and the surrounding areas. Collaborative efforts, including stricter enforcement, technological advancements, and public awareness initiatives, are crucial to mitigating the adverse impacts of air pollution on public health.
