All articles tagged with #stubble burning
Scientists have observed that in 2025, stubble burning in northern India is occurring later in the day, primarily between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m., compared to earlier years, which may influence air quality and pollution levels. This shift has been detected through satellite data, indicating changes in farmers' burning behavior, and contributes significantly to regional air pollution, especially in Delhi and surrounding areas.
Delhi's air quality has deteriorated to 'very poor' due to a combination of firecracker use during Diwali, vehicular emissions, and increased crop residue burning in neighboring states, compounded by winter weather conditions that trap pollutants, highlighting the need for long-term, collaborative solutions to address recurring air pollution crises.
The Supreme Court has directed the states of Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh to take immediate action to stop crop burning, which contributes significantly to air pollution in Delhi. The court also called for the installation of a functional smog tower in the capital and suggested a shift to alternative crops as a long-term solution. The court criticized the odd-even scheme implemented by the Delhi government and called for measures to control vehicular pollution. The court-appointed amicus curiae directed the Delhi government to monitor and prevent the burning of municipal solid waste. The court will hear the matter again on November 10.
Delhi-NCR continues to suffer from severe air pollution, with the air quality index (AQI) remaining in the "severe" category for the third consecutive day. Weather agencies predict that the pollution levels will persist for the next three days. The city recorded an AQI of 415 on Saturday, with 23 out of 34 pollution monitoring stations in the "severe" category. Stubble burning, calm winds, and low temperatures are contributing to the hazardous air quality. The Delhi government has called for a ban on polluting vehicles and a meeting with the environment ministers of neighboring states. However, no significant action has been taken to address the crisis, and the blame game between political parties continues.