Crackdown on Stubble Burning: Impact on Delhi's Air Quality

Stubble burning incidents in Punjab and Haryana dropped by over 50% from 2024 to 2025, reducing their impact on Delhi's air quality. FIRs filed against farmers and financial penalties also declined, though local pollution factors in Delhi-NCR remain a concern.

Efforts to curb stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana have shown significant progress, with cases reducing by more than half over the past year, according to recent data acquired via the Right to Information Act. This has resulted in a notable decrease in the impact on Delhi's air quality.

The reduction in farm fires has been accompanied by a drop in FIRs and financial penalties against farmers, reflecting the intensified enforcement measures. Despite the progress, stubble burning remains only a part of the broader air pollution issue facing Delhi-NCR.

Local environmentalists and experts highlight the need for continued stringent actions against other local pollution sources that contribute substantially to the city's air pollution levels, urging authorities to expand their focus beyond the agricultural sector.

(With inputs from agencies.)