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Ballabgarh Chokes: AQI Hits Severe Levels
14 Nov
Summary
- Ballabgarh recorded the worst air quality with AQI 419.
- Haryana deployed flying squads and drones to curb stubble burning.
- Incentives and alternative uses for paddy straw are promoted.
As of Friday, Ballabgarh in Haryana registered the highest air quality index (AQI) in the Delhi-NCR region, reaching a severe 419. Delhi followed with an AQI of 403, while other cities like Ghaziabad and Noida remained in the 'very poor' category. This critical situation has prompted the Haryana government to place district administrations, police, and agriculture officials on high alert, emphasizing zero tolerance for stubble burning.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) highlighted the next 15 days as crucial for paddy harvesting and pollution control. Special surveillance in vulnerable villages and direct engagement with farmers are being intensified. Village-level nodal officers and flying squads have been appointed, with drones and sensors used to detect violations.
Efforts are underway to combine enforcement measures, including fines and FIRs, with incentives promoting alternative uses for paddy straw. Links are being established between farmers and biomass power plants, pellet plants, and aggregator facilities to transform crop residue into an income source.
Meanwhile, civic bodies in Jhajjar, Sonipat, and Rohtak are utilizing sprinkler systems and anti-smog guns to mitigate dust and particulate pollution. While stubble-burning incidents have reportedly decreased in some areas like Hisar and Fatehabad, sustained vigilance throughout the coming fortnight is deemed essential.
