Stubble Burning Season Intensifies in North India, Raising Air Quality Concerns
The latest in this situation
How it started
What happened
Stubble burning, the practice of setting fire to crop residue, is prevalent across northwest India, particularly in Punjab, Haryana, and parts of Uttar Pradesh, from October through November. Between September 15 and October 17, Madhya Pradesh recorded 354 farm fires, followed by Punjab with 220, and Uttar Pradesh with 134. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) issued notices to officials in Amritsar, Punjab, on October 16 for failing to take effective steps.
Why it matters
Stubble burning releases particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and volatile organic compounds, contributing to thick smog. This practice also depletes soil fertility by removing essential micronutrients and moisture. Furthermore, a Super El Nino is expected to reduce western disturbances, potentially increasing the intrusion of polluted air into the region.
From thehindu.com, moneycontrol.com
Who's involved
- HaryanaState in North India experiencing agricultural risk and pollution exposure.
- PunjabIndian state where stubble burning is a major contributor to air quality issues.
- RajasthanState in north-western India affected by the stubble burning season.
- DelhiMegacity and union territory of India facing air quality degradation from the season.
Possible ripples
Who this could reach next, traced step by step from the reporting. Possibilities worth considering, not forecasts.- Bhagwant Mann must address high stubble burning incidents in PunjabBhagwant Mann faces increased pressure to manage the stubble burning crisis in PunjabLikely
- Air quality crisis may increase administrative burden on Government of HaryanaRegulatory pressure from air quality crisis increases administrative burden on Government of HaryanaLikely
- Stubble burning may worsen Delhi's air quality this winterStubble burning may worsen Delhi's air quality this winterLikely
- Air quality crisis may challenge Aam Aadmi Party's governanceAir quality crisis from stubble burning may challenge the Aam Aadmi Party's governancePossible
- Stubble burning may affect Chandigarh's air qualityStubble burning could worsen air quality in Chandigarh due to regional pollution accumulationPossible
How it developed
Newest first. Tap a step to see who reported it.- The Ministry of Environment oversees air pollution measures in Haryana, addressing C&D activities and reviewing Punjab's stubble burning plan.Sub-event
- CAQM reviewed stubble burning measures in Amritsar in January 2025.Sub-event
CAQM issued notices to Amritsar officials following reports of high stubble burning in Haryana, MP, and Punjab.1 source
- Stubble burning in Punjab is impacting the air quality in Delhi.Sub-event
Research institute NIAS compiled satellite data on stubble burning cases in Punjab and Haryana.1 source
Air quality crisis due to stubble burning is shared across several North Indian states.1 source