Environment body discusses steps to curb winter stubble burning in Punjab, Haryana

In a move to combat air pollution in the National Capital Region (NCR) and adjoining areas, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) convened two pivotal high-level review meetings in Chandigarh which were attended by Chairperson and members of the Commission, senior officials, Chief Secretaries and officers from Haryana and Punjab.

Both the meetings aimed to boost inter-departmental coordination and evaluate the progress of pollution abatement measures.

For Haryana, the review focused extensively on preparedness to eliminate paddy stubble burning for the year 2025, aligning with the approved Action Plan. Officials assessed the promotion of paddy straw-based biomass pellets in brick kilns and compliance by thermal power plants, especially regarding the ambitious target of at least 5% biomass co-firing for 2025-26.

Strategies to mitigate road dust, redevelopment of key roads, and enforcement of vehicular emission norms were also scrutinized. Key directives such as the phasing out of End-of-Life vehicles, installation of Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras, and the adoption of cleaner mobility options by transport and delivery services were reviewed.

The meeting also examined efforts to transition all buses, including tourist and commercial vehicles entering Delhi, to cleaner fuel modes and discussed plans to eliminate diesel auto-rickshaws.

Simultaneously, the Punjab review also underscored similar priorities, emphasising on the elimination of paddy stubble burning and mandatory biomass pellet use in brick kilns.

Compliance with thermal power plant norms and vehicle emission controls received significant attention. The Commission stressed timely and proactive adherence to statutory directions to prevent a seasonal spike in pollution levels.

Enhancing these discussions, the CAQM team conducted field visits on to various ex-situ paddy stubble management facilities, including pelletisation plants, Compressed Bio-gas (CBG) units, 2G ethanol plants, and industrial boilers in both states. These inspections offered valuable insights into technological advancements and operational effectiveness.

The Commission reaffirmed the need for strengthened coordination, focused action on the approved plans, and rigorous enforcement of directives to secure measurable improvements in air quality.

Commending the efforts of Haryana and Punjab, CAQM called for sustained collaboration among all stakeholders to tackle air pollution effectively, especially in anticipation of the approaching winter season.

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