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Delhi Pollution: Stubble Fire Counts Skewed?
3 Sep
Summary
- Authorities are seeking better ground-truthing for farm fire measurements.
- Farm fires contribute significantly to Delhi pollution spikes in October/November.
- Satellite fire counts may not accurately reflect pollution levels.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) is engaging with Punjab and Haryana authorities to enhance the measurement of stubble fires as part of preparations for the winter pollution season in the Delhi national capital region. CAQM Chairman Rajesh Varma noted ongoing discussions with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and Punjab to establish improved ground-truthing protocols, acknowledging that satellite fire counts might not provide the most accurate representation.
Farm fires in Punjab are a substantial contributor to pollution during October and November. During this period, paddy stubble is often burned after harvesting to facilitate wheat sowing, being the most economical method. While farm fires contribute around 15% of particulate matter pollution over the entire winter, their share can surge to approximately 44% during specific weeks, according to various studies.
Recent evidence suggests that claims of significant reductions in farm fires may be exaggerated. Studies have indicated a shift in peak fire activity to later in the day, potentially to evade satellite detection. Alternative methods, such as calculating the 'burnt area' using different satellite data, suggest a more gradual reduction of around 30% between 2022 and 2025. CAQM is collaborating with ISRO to develop a basic protocol for better estimates than mere fire counts.
