In a bid to curb air pollution, authorities in Haryana have intensified their crackdown on stubble burning, a practice that significantly contributes to deteriorating air quality during the winter months. As part of this effort, 16 farmers were arrested for illegally burning paddy stubble, despite repeated warnings and awareness campaigns by the government.
The Problem of Stubble Burning
Stubble burning involves setting fire to the leftover straw from harvested crops, particularly paddy, to prepare fields for the next sowing season. While it is a quick and cost-effective method, the practice releases large amounts of harmful pollutants, including particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), carbon dioxide, and other toxic gases. These emissions exacerbate the already hazardous air quality in Haryana, Punjab, and Delhi-NCR during the winter, contributing to widespread health issues.
Legal Measures and Arrests
The government has imposed strict regulations against stubble burning under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 and other environmental laws. Farmers, however, cite financial constraints and lack of alternatives as reasons for continuing the practice. Despite the availability of subsidies for crop residue management equipment, adoption has been limited.
The recent arrests are part of a larger crackdown aimed at enforcing compliance. Authorities have also issued fines and penalties to discourage stubble burning. Satellite imagery and drones are being used to monitor farm fires, ensuring swift action against violators.
Farmers’ Response and Concerns
Farmer groups have expressed discontent over the arrests, arguing that they are being penalized without viable alternatives. They have called for increased financial aid and support for mechanized solutions like Happy Seeders, which help manage crop residue without burning.
Environmental and Health Impacts
The pollution caused by stubble burning worsens smog conditions in the region, leading to respiratory illnesses, reduced visibility, and a significant rise in pollution levels. The Delhi-NCR region, in particular, faces a severe decline in air quality during this period, often crossing hazardous levels.
The Way Forward
Experts suggest that a long-term solution requires a combination of enforcement, farmer incentives, and widespread adoption of eco-friendly practices. Collaborative efforts between state governments, central authorities, and farmer organizations are crucial to addressing the twin challenges of environmental degradation and agricultural sustainability.