Punjab, the ‘Granary of India’, is grappling with an alarming increase in air pollution levels, primarily driven by the surge in farm fire incidents. On a day when the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) invoked Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across the entire National Capital Region (NCR), Punjab reported the highest number of farm fire incidents for the season. The situation is not only causing severe health concerns but also impacting neighboring regions, including Delhi, as the air quality continues to deteriorate.
The northern state of Punjab reported a staggering 3,230 farm fire incidents, driving the total number of stubble burning incidents this season to a concerning 17,403, according to data from the Punjab Remote Sensing Centre. The growing number of farm fire incidents is a cause for concern and demands immediate attention to prevent a public health crisis.
Sangrur district topped the list with 551 farm fire incidents on Sunday, followed by Ferozepur (299), Mansa (293), Bathinda (247), Barnala (189), Moga (179), Tarn Taran (177), and Patiala (169). These districts are contributing significantly to the alarming statistics and are witnessing hazardous air quality levels, posing severe risks to the health of the residents.
While the surge in farm fire incidents is a matter of grave concern, there is a glimmer of hope in the data. Farm fire incidents in November alone constituted a significant 56 percent of the total incidents recorded this season. The reduction in incidents from 29,400 during the same period in 2022 to 17,403 this year reflects a 41 percent decrease — a positive trend suggesting that awareness campaigns and stricter regulations on stubble burning may be making an impact.
Comparatively, in 2021, Punjab had reported a staggering 28,792 farm fires during the same period, indicating a considerable reduction in 2022 with 5,327 incidents recorded on November 5, and a mere 2,817 in 2023. While the decrease in farm fire incidents is a positive development, the challenge is far from over, as the impact of these incidents on air quality is significant and far-reaching.
The impact of the farm fires is not limited to Punjab alone. It has severe repercussions on air quality across the region, including neighboring states and the national capital, Delhi.
Data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reveals the extent of the crisis. Bathinda recorded an alarming Air Quality Index (AQI) of 375, indicating “very poor” air quality. Mandi Gobindgarh had an AQI of 291, Khanna at 255, Patiala at 248, and Ludhiana at 243. An AQI between zero and 50 is considered "good," while values beyond 400 fall under the "severe" category, indicating a significant health risk for the population.
The situation in Haryana is equally alarming, with several regions reporting “very poor” and “severe” air quality. Faridabad recorded an AQI of 450, while Fatehabad had an AQI of 442. The AQI levels in Kaithal stood at 434, Hisar at 427, Gurugram at 402, Jind at 401, Sirsa at 390, Rohtak at 362, Panipat at 346, Kurukshetra at 330, and Karnal at 319. Chandigarh, the shared capital of Punjab and Haryana, is also grappling with air quality concerns, with an AQI of 212.
Paddy straw burning in Punjab and Haryana remains a significant contributor to the alarming spike in air pollution levels in the region, particularly in October and November. While various factors contribute to this crisis, stubble burning has consistently been identified as a major driver of deteriorating air quality.
In response to the situation, Delhi's Environment Minister, Gopal Rai, acknowledged that stubble burning in Punjab has a relatively lesser impact on Delhi compared to the smoke originating from farm fires in Haryana and Uttar Pradesh. He pointed out the significance of wind patterns in determining the impact of these fires on air quality. Currently, smoke from Haryana and Uttar Pradesh is more significantly affecting Delhi due to prevailing wind conditions.
Govt Issues Advisory
Taking note of the rising air pollution levels, Punjab Government has issued nine-point advisory to the public urging them to wear masks and refrain from going outside. Additionally, the Government has provided further guidance to help the residents protect themselves from the harmful effects of air pollution.
The advisory noted that air pollution can be particularly hazardous to certain vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, individuals with conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, asthma, and respiratory ailments. These groups are at a higher risk of suffering from the adverse effects of pollution, which can impact their life expectancy and overall well-being.
Recognizing the symptoms of air pollution is essential, which may include persistent coughing, shortness of breath, eye irritation, and a feeling of heaviness in the head. “If you experience any of these symptoms, it is essential to take them seriously and consider potential exposure to polluted air,” read the advisory.
The impact of air pollution can be both immediate and long-term. In the short term, it can lead to a range of health problems; while in the long term, it can significantly reduce life expectancy and overall quality of life.
The advisory also emphasizes the importance of seeking medical attention when needed. Residents are encouraged to stay indoors when pollution levels are high, consult with healthcare professionals if they have concerns about their health, use inhalers for asthma patients, maintain a balanced diet, and adhere to prescribed medications.
For pregnant women and children, taking extra precautions is vital. They are advised not to venture outdoors due to their increased susceptibility to health problems caused by air pollution. It is recommended to avoid crowded places and keep doors and windows closed to minimize exposure.
Morning walks are encouraged, but it is advisable to do so only after the sun has risen, and visibility has improved. The use of face masks is highly recommended when going outside to protect against airborne pollutants.
To address the issue at its source, the advisory underscores the importance of reducing pollution by carpooling, avoiding the burning of crop residues, increasing tree plantation, and maintaining a nutritious diet.