District officials in Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi now have stronger powers to stop stubble burning. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has given them more authority to take action against government employees who do not prevent this practice. This comes as the air quality is expected to get worse in the coming weeks, mainly because of paddy stubble burning.
Paddy residue burning is a big reason for the thick, polluted smog that covers Delhi and nearby areas every winter. The new order, issued on October 1, allows Deputy Commissioners, District Collectors, and District Magistrates to file complaints against negligent officers. This includes officials responsible for enforcing the ban on stubble burning in their areas.
Previously, these officials could only report issues to judicial magistrates. The revised order supersedes an earlier one from October 10, 2024. It specifically mentions that nodal officers, supervisory officers, and Station House Officers can be held accountable for inaction.
The Supreme Court had previously expressed disappointment with the weak enforcement of farm fire bans. The court had suggested stricter measures, including arrests, to deter people from burning stubble. The next hearing on this issue is on October 8.
Despite continuous warnings and efforts, stubble burning still happens in North India. However, the number of incidents has decreased in recent years. The CAQM has emphasized that farm fires are already banned by state governments. Therefore, enforcement officials must ensure compliance.
Dr. Virinder Sharma, a member of the CAQM who signed the directive, stated that district administrations need to be “constantly vigilant.” They must work towards the “complete elimination” of crop residue burning. This new directive aims to improve the enforcement of the ban and hold officials responsible for failing to control the problem. The goal is to improve air quality during the critical winter months and protect public health.