Increase in stubble burning cases, reveal agencies

New Delhi: Data by various agencies have revealed that stubble burning cases in Punjab, Haryana and neighbouring states have increased, which in turn is affecting the air quality in the national Capital.

Central-government based System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR) in its forecast on Tuesday revealed that, "a gradual increase in stubble burning activity in Haryana, Panjab, and nearby border regions are noticed and fire count has reached one-fourth of its peak value observed last year, as evident in the synergistic multi-satellite product of SAFAR." SAFAR also stated even though the boundary layer wind direction is northwesterly, it is supportive for efficient biomass plume transport to the Delhi region, the high wind speed 35 (kmph) experiencing in Delhi is not favoring any accumulation of pollutants. "Wind speeds are forecasted to slow down AQI forecasted to deteriorate slowly but in the higher end of poor to very poor category for next two days,' it said.

Meanwhile, environmentalists say stubble burning is an issue of concern, however, it can't solely be blamed for air pollution in the city.

"I can't emphasise it enough that air pollution is an issue that should be concentrated on, throughout the year and not only on winters," said environmentalist Vikrant Tongad.

He added that industrial pollution is also one of the major issues for air pollution. "Even after actions have been taken to shut down industries in unauthorized areas, many still function in Wazirpur and Mayapuri areas. These factories also contribute to a major chunk of pollution in Delhi," he said.

Meanwhile, NASA revealed pictures of increased stubble burning in the neighbouring states. On Monday, Nasa's VIIRS satellite picked up 1,031 fire count in the two states, while 971 fires had been detected on Sunday.

CPCB had also revealed that there has been a spike in stubble burning cases from last year.