The Delhi government on Tuesday said that the latest images from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) show a drastic increase in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/save-delhi-from-becoming-gas-chamber-delhi-cm-urges-neighbouring-governments-to-take-concrete-steps-as-air-quality-dips-258718">stubble burning</a> in the last 24 hours in Haryana and Punjab.

A statement from the office of Delhi's Environment Minister Kailash Gahlot said, "Latest NASA images show a drastic increase in stubble burning in the last 24 hours. Stubble burning counts have increased from 1,654 to 2,577 in Punjab/Haryana in the last 24 hours."

The statement said that wind direction shows stubble plume could increase from Punjab and Haryana, and Delhi facing adverse air quality despite the cleanest Diwali night in the last many years.

"The latest NASA images show a drastic spurt in crop residue burnings (stubble burnings) in the neighbouring states of Delhi, which has severely affected Delhi's air quality. The stubble plume from north-west regions has become one of the significant factors in adversely affecting Delhi's air quality," said the statement.

"Today, transport-level wind direction is north-westerly, which might increase stubble plume towards Delhi. As per SAFAR-model, the stubble share may touch this year's peak value now," the statement said.

The statement further said that Delhi is going through a bad period with reference to ambient air quality after celebrating one of the cleanest Diwali in the last few years.

"The overall pollution level during the Diwali period in 2019 was found to be better than the past many years. Boundary layer winds speed also helped to flush out the additional load of last night," added the statement.&nbsp;

The Delhi government on Tuesday said that the latest images from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) show a drastic increase in the stubble burning in the last 24 hours in Haryana and Punjab.

The Delhi government on Tuesday said that the latest images from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) show a drastic increase in the stubble burning in the last 24 hours in Haryana and Punjab. A statement from the office of Delhi's Environment Minister Kailash Gahlot said, "Latest NASA images show a drastic increase in stubble burning in the last 24 hours. Stubble burning counts have increased from 1,654 to 2,577 in Punjab/Haryana in the last 24 hours." The statement said that wind direction shows stubble plume could increase from Punjab and Haryana, and Delhi facing adverse air quality despite the cleanest Diwali night in the last many years. "The latest NASA images show a drastic spurt in crop residue burnings (stubble burnings) in the neighbouring states of Delhi, which has severely affected Delhi's air quality. The stubble plume from north-west regions has become one of the significant factors in adversely affecting Delhi's air quality," said the statement. "Today, transport-level wind direction is north-westerly, which might increase stubble plume towards Delhi. As per SAFAR-model, the stubble share may touch this year's peak value now," the statement said. The statement further said that Delhi is going through a bad period with reference to ambient air quality after celebrating one of the cleanest Diwali in the last few years. "The overall pollution level during the Diwali period in 2019 was found to be better than the past many years. Boundary layer winds speed also helped to flush out the additional load of last night," added the statement.

NASA images show increase in stubble burning in last 24 hours in Punjab, Haryana: Delhi government

Farmers continue to burn stubble in the district despite the ban imposed by the Punjab government. Farmers say that they will stop burning crop residue if they are suitably compensated by the government for managing stubble.

Speaking to ANI, a farmer Gajjan Singh said, "We are forced to burn the stubble. If the government starts giving us compensation for managing stubble, we will not burn the straw."

The farmer, however, said that pollution is being caused due to growing number of vehicles on roads and emissions from the factories.

Farmers in Punjab and Haryana usually burn crop residue after harvesting paddy in the autumn to clear the fields for the summer crop.&nbsp;

Smoke from these two states travels to the national capital each year, leading to a spike in the air pollution level.&nbsp;

Farmers continue to burn stubble in the district despite the ban imposed by the Punjab government. Farmers say that they will stop burning crop residue if they are suitably compensated by the government for managing stubble.

Farmers continue to burn stubble in the district despite the ban imposed by the Punjab government. Farmers say that they will stop burning crop residue if they are suitably compensated by the government for managing stubble. Speaking to ANI, a farmer Gajjan Singh said, "We are forced to burn the stubble. If the government starts giving us compensation for managing stubble, we will not burn the straw." The farmer, however, said that pollution is being caused due to growing number of vehicles on roads and emissions from the factories. Farmers in Punjab and Haryana usually burn crop residue after harvesting paddy in the autumn to clear the fields for the summer crop. Smoke from these two states travels to the national capital each year, leading to a spike in the air pollution level.

We will not burn straw if we are compensated for managing stubble, says Punjab farmer

As <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hazy-morning-in-delhi-ncr-air-quality-continues-to-be-poor-256010">air quality in the national capital region</a> continues to dip, NASA's Fire Information for Resource Management System (FIRMS) depicts stubble burning in Delhi's adjoining areas.&nbsp;

While the fires were highlighted in isolated places across the country, the concentration intensified as one moved northward on India's map near Punjab, Haryana. &nbsp;

According to reports, the Delhi government also shared the NASA images pointing at the "large scale crop residue burning in states adjoining Delhi".&nbsp;

The Kejriwal-government has long blamed the stubble-burning activities in adjoining states like Punjab, Haryana and other areas for the drop in the air quality of the national capital during the winter months.&nbsp;

Previously conducted studies by NASA show&nbsp;the drop in North India's air quality during winters.

Research published in November 2015 by NASA's Earth Observatory stated, "satellites began to detect large numbers of active fires in mid-October. Normally extensive agricultural burning lasts for about three weeks. Although most of the haze appears to originate from the agricultural fires, other factors such as urban and industrial smog may also be contributing".

It explained how several types of particles and gases are released into the atmosphere, "including smog-forming carbon monoxide, and nitrogen dioxide" due to this fire.&nbsp;

"Haze that forms over Punjab rarely stays there. While the fires burn, smoke often blankets much of the Indo-Gangetic Plain, exposing millions of people in the densely populated plain to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/over-12-million-early-deaths-in-india-due-to-air-pollution-report-207651">elevated levels of air pollution</a>," it added.&nbsp;

Another piece shared by the Earth Observatory way back in the year 2010 described skies over northern Indian as "some of the haziest in the world".

"After the rains of the summer monsoon clear the dust, the composition of the air shifts in the fall crop-burning season (October and November) for farmers, particularly in the northwestern Indian states of Punjab and Haryana. When MODIS passed over on November 4, 2010, the sensor observed numerous small fires and a large smoke plume lingering downwind."

The finding published on NASA's webpage attributed the change in air quality in Northern India to a host of factors ranging from smoke originating from cooking, heating stoves in rural areas, "smattering of agricultural fires that continue through the winter", adding that the urban community adds to the worsening air quality by the means of vehicular pollution, "coal-fired power plants, and other industrial sources".

Meanwhile, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) on Tuesday sought a report from the governments of Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Punjab over the action taken to stop stubble burning in their respective states, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

The NGT said that the report should be filed by November 15 which is also the next date of hearing.&nbsp;

The bench observed that the burning of crops is still taking place and that the states have not been able to communicate with the farmers and educate them about the same.

"If you have not succeeded then it is the failure of the state. Ultimately, the citizens are suffering," the tribunal observed.

Farmers residing in Haryana and Punjab have begun burning their crop residue in order to clear the fields of the summer harvest. Smoke from these two states travels to Delhi, leading to a spike in the air pollution levels.

The air quality index (AQI) in the national capital remains in the 'poor' category according to the Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR).

As air quality in the national capital region continues to dip, NASA's Fire Information for Resource Management System (FIRMS) depicts stubble burning in Delhi's adjoining areas.

As air quality in the national capital region continues to dip, NASA's Fire Information for Resource Management System (FIRMS) depicts stubble burning in Delhi's adjoining areas. While the fires were highlighted in isolated places across the country, the concentration intensified as one moved northward on India's map near Punjab, Haryana. According to reports, the Delhi government also shared the NASA images pointing at the "large scale crop residue burning in states adjoining Delhi". The Kejriwal-government has long blamed the stubble-burning activities in adjoining states like Punjab, Haryana and other areas for the drop in the air quality of the national capital during the winter months. Previously conducted studies by NASA show the drop in North India's air quality during winters. Research published in November 2015 by NASA's Earth Observatory stated, "satellites began to detect large numbers of active fires in mid-October. Normally extensive agricultural burning lasts for about three weeks. Although most of the haze appears to originate from the agricultural fires, other factors such as urban and industrial smog may also be contributing". It explained how several types of particles and gases are released into the atmosphere, "including smog-forming carbon monoxide, and nitrogen dioxide" due to this fire. "Haze that forms over Punjab rarely stays there. While the fires burn, smoke often blankets much of the Indo-Gangetic Plain, exposing millions of people in the densely populated plain to elevated levels of air pollution," it added. Another piece shared by the Earth Observatory way back in the year 2010 described skies over northern Indian as "some of the haziest in the world". "After the rains of the summer monsoon clear the dust, the composition of the air shifts in the fall crop-burning season (October and November) for farmers, particularly in the northwestern Indian states of Punjab and Haryana. When MODIS passed over on November 4, 2010, the sensor observed numerous small fires and a large smoke plume lingering downwind." The finding published on NASA's webpage attributed the change in air quality in Northern India to a host of factors ranging from smoke originating from cooking, heating stoves in rural areas, "smattering of agricultural fires that continue through the winter", adding that the urban community adds to the worsening air quality by the means of vehicular pollution, "coal-fired power plants, and other industrial sources". Meanwhile, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) on Tuesday sought a report from the governments of Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Punjab over the action taken to stop stubble burning in their respective states, news agency ANI reported. The NGT said that the report should be filed by November 15 which is also the next date of hearing. The bench observed that the burning of crops is still taking place and that the states have not been able to communicate with the farmers and educate them about the same. "If you have not succeeded then it is the failure of the state. Ultimately, the citizens are suffering," the tribunal observed. Farmers residing in Haryana and Punjab have begun burning their crop residue in order to clear the fields of the summer harvest. Smoke from these two states travels to Delhi, leading to a spike in the air pollution levels. The air quality index (AQI) in the national capital remains in the 'poor' category according to the Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR).

NASA images show stubble burning in Punjab, Haryana

Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/javadekar-backs-cutting-trees-at-aarey-says-development-and-environment-protection-should-go-together-253905">Prakash Javadekar</a> on Monday said that much needs to be done to address the issue of stubble burning that impacts Delhi's air quality in the winter months and noted that the central government has provided Rs 1150 crore assistance for machines that will allow stubble to be converted to manure. 
 
Addressing a press conference, the minister said the problem of stubble burning was old and steps have been taken to tackle it by the Modi government. 
 
"The biggest question and it will come again is stubble burning," Javadekar said at a press conference here on steps taken to by the central government to deal with the problem of air pollution in Delhi. 
 
He said farmers in Haryana and Punjab have been burning stubble for years and if such air reaches Delhi, it adds to worries. 
 
"If the (polluted) air comes to Delhi, the issue becomes serious. For this, the central government has provided assistance of Rs 1150 crore and 18,000 machines have been given to farmers in Punjab and Haryana. They will not need to burn the stubble. It will be broken and will be turned into manure," he said. 
 
"There is a need to do it much more. Now it has started, earlier it had not even started. It has been burning for 20 years, but work has started now,' he said. 
The minister said the government has for the first time made "construction and demolition waste management rules" which are based on those followed for metro construction. 
 
He said three units to deal with construction and demolition waste were working and another four will be set up. The minister said that the measures have prevented 6 lakh tonne of debris from going into rivers and drains. 
 
He added that 76 road sweeping machines and 502 water sprinklers have been provided to deal with the problem of dust. 
 
Additionally, three waste-to-energy plants were using 6000 tonnes of waste to produce 52 MW power. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/use-only-green-crackers-during-diwali-says-javadekar-254294">The minister said bio-mining was being used in landfills like Ghazipur</a> which will help in segregating material and help decompose organic material.

Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Prakash Javadekar on Monday said that much needs to be done to address the issue of stubble burning that impacts Delhi's air quality in the winter months and noted that the central government has provided Rs 1150 crore assistance for machines that will allow stubble to be converted to manure.

Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Prakash Javadekar on Monday said that much needs to be done to address the issue of stubble burning that impacts Delhi's air quality in the winter months and noted that the central government has provided Rs 1150 crore assistance for machines that will allow stubble to be converted to manure. Addressing a press conference, the minister said the problem of stubble burning was old and steps have been taken to tackle it by the Modi government. "The biggest question and it will come again is stubble burning," Javadekar said at a press conference here on steps taken to by the central government to deal with the problem of air pollution in Delhi. He said farmers in Haryana and Punjab have been burning stubble for years and if such air reaches Delhi, it adds to worries. "If the (polluted) air comes to Delhi, the issue becomes serious. For this, the central government has provided assistance of Rs 1150 crore and 18,000 machines have been given to farmers in Punjab and Haryana. They will not need to burn the stubble. It will be broken and will be turned into manure," he said. "There is a need to do it much more. Now it has started, earlier it had not even started. It has been burning for 20 years, but work has started now,' he said. The minister said the government has for the first time made "construction and demolition waste management rules" which are based on those followed for metro construction. He said three units to deal with construction and demolition waste were working and another four will be set up. The minister said that the measures have prevented 6 lakh tonne of debris from going into rivers and drains. He added that 76 road sweeping machines and 502 water sprinklers have been provided to deal with the problem of dust. Additionally, three waste-to-energy plants were using 6000 tonnes of waste to produce 52 MW power. The minister said bio-mining was being used in landfills like Ghazipur which will help in segregating material and help decompose organic material.

Much needs to be done to deal with stubble burning, says Javadekar

Even as the air quality index (AQI) in the national capital and adjoining areas continues to deteriorate, the farmers in the agriculture belt of India continue to burn stubble in their farms.

Once such case came to the fore on Saturday after smoke emanating from stubble burning choked the commuters on the National Highway 5 near Shambhu barrier here.

In the fire, the wheat crop spread over hundreds of acres of land was reduced to ashes.

The threat of air pollution looms large over the national capital region as the harvest season has kicked in. As per the latest AQI data, the air quality of Delhi's Lodhi Road area showed levels of prominent pollutants PM 2.5 and PM 10 at 57 and 203, respectively.

An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered "good", 51 and 100 "satisfactory", 101 and 200 "moderate", 201 and 300 "poor", 301 and 400 "very poor", and 401 and 500 "severe".

Following the directions of the Supreme Court last year, the Centre had approved a large sum of money for modern tools and technology to combat the problem of stubble burning.

A report issued by Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB) in October last year, however, said poor farmers continue to practice stubble burning despite a ban as they have no other alternative, owing to shortage and high-prices of Happy Seeder Machines, a tractor-mounted machine that cuts and lifts stubble and straw.&nbsp;

Even as the air quality index (AQI) in the national capital and adjoining areas continues to deteriorate, the farmers in the agriculture belt of India continue to burn stubble in their farms.

Even as the air quality index (AQI) in the national capital and adjoining areas continues to deteriorate, the farmers in the agriculture belt of India continue to burn stubble in their farms. Once such case came to the fore on Saturday after smoke emanating from stubble burning choked the commuters on the National Highway 5 near Shambhu barrier here. In the fire, the wheat crop spread over hundreds of acres of land was reduced to ashes. The threat of air pollution looms large over the national capital region as the harvest season has kicked in. As per the latest AQI data, the air quality of Delhi's Lodhi Road area showed levels of prominent pollutants PM 2.5 and PM 10 at 57 and 203, respectively. An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered "good", 51 and 100 "satisfactory", 101 and 200 "moderate", 201 and 300 "poor", 301 and 400 "very poor", and 401 and 500 "severe". Following the directions of the Supreme Court last year, the Centre had approved a large sum of money for modern tools and technology to combat the problem of stubble burning. A report issued by Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB) in October last year, however, said poor farmers continue to practice stubble burning despite a ban as they have no other alternative, owing to shortage and high-prices of Happy Seeder Machines, a tractor-mounted machine that cuts and lifts stubble and straw.

Despite ban, farmers continue to burn stubble in Punjab

Diwali was celebrated this year. Surely with a Supreme Court's order for bursting of crackers between 8-10 PM. Indeed agitated and concerned was Honorable Supreme Court with the growing levels of pollution in the country overall and particularly in Delhi. It is a matter of concern which is not just agitating everyone but also affecting everyone's health. Especially the children growing up in Delhi are most vulnerable. I do not want to pass on any comment on Supreme Court's order. They adjudicated on whatever was the issue arraigned before them. We should respect the order.

Delhi of an earlier era

Let me share with the readers that I am a Delhite to the core I was born in Connaught Place, and have grown up and lived in South Delhi most part of my life except for brief interludes of living in the UK and Mumbai. The Delhi I grew up was the Delhi of 1970s and 1980s and the air was much purer in Delhi those days.

Pollution was not known to us as children except a pun here or a jest there when someone farted. That was the only pollution we knew as children and youth. It was also related to lifestyles. Notwithstanding all the negative connotation of DTU (Don't Trust Us) or DTC (Disgraceful Transport Confusion), people overall were using these public transport as a primary mode of intra-city commute. Scooters were a rarity and cars were deemed elitist.

Increasing pollution in Delhi

However, the growth of the vehicle population has indeed grown by leaps and bounds in the last two decades which as a consequence has given rise to increasing pollution in our Delhi. A young scientist, Ms. Anumita Roychowdhury, of the Centre for Science and Environment has done real time and highly creditable work on this with an attendant crisis like shrinking public spaces due to parking, impact on public health etc. She really deserves kudos for this and her work has created awareness in the government circles to address the concerns. Both the Government of Delhi and the Government of India have been flagged because of this work and have calibrated several measures in combating this. But the sheer numbers are a matter of concern, which is becoming insurmountable for any counter measures to really have an impact.

Venom multiplier 
 
Leaving the vehicular pollution behind, we are also concerned with pollution on account of several other factors like industrial pollution and illegal factories and dyeing units operating from households, on which the judiciary has indeed given appropriate directions from time to time. But one factor which generally leads to pollution during Diwali time is the stubble burning in the states of Punjab and Haryana. This results in air quality being rendered extremely poor. This, in turn, leads to a situation of Diwali crackers being a venom multiplier. It is this which I seek to examine and put in perspective.

Was there stubble burning hitherto?

As already recalled, I have been living in Delhi for one year short of six decades. This has endowed me with the opportunity to travel into nearby and neighbouring states like UP, Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan on quite a few occasions in different stages of life. I can say for sure that hitherto this trend of stubble burning was never in vogue. It was not even a known phenomenon. May also say for sure that during my travel in the hinterland areas neighbouring Delhi, it was not just sightseeing but I also had this opportunity to interact with the local rural populace, and I never once heard even a mention of stubble burning. Only recently has this practice begun amongst the farming community of northern India.

Agrarian practices in other regions

Let me also share with you experiences I have had with farmers of other regions of the country with whom I have had an opportunity to interact during these years. As an officer of the Ministry of Textiles, I had the opportunity to speak to inhabitants of Naupatna in Odisha. The vocation of the people here are farming and handloom weaving to supplement their income. While partaking of their excellent food I had in January 2016 ascertained what crops they grow. They informed that while paddy is a primary crop, the second crop was pulses, vegetables, etc.

Again in April 2016, I had this opportunity to travel to hinterland of West Bengal from a handloom cluster in Fulia and Shantipur to Murshidabad handloom cluster. Handloom weaving is closely intertwined with the agrarian economy and here too the interaction with local inhabitants revealed that they generally grow paddy as the primary crop with a large platter of very exotic rural vegetables (contrary to myth, Bengalis consume many varieties of vegetables which are known only in the Southern and Eastern parts of the country).

Further recently, I travelled to Tamil Nadu, where again my journey took me from Madurai to Dindigul, Natham, Sivagangai, Pillaiyarpatti, Rameswaram, Tirunelveli, Sankarankoil, Srivilliputhur, Satthur, and back to Madurai. I interacted intensively with local inhabitants. Being able to speak Tamil, I was at a distinct advantage of striking a chord with them. I was told by the farming community that they have two crops namely paddy being the primary one while the other being bananas, coconuts, palm, mangoes, etc.

Now, in all these interactions I sought to know what they do after harvest of the first crop before sowing the second. They all responded uniformly that they plough the land to make it ready for next crop. When asked about the residue of the previous crop again there was a common response that the residue acts as a nutrient ('satthu' as told in Tamil to be me by a farmer).

Let me make one thing clear, that this is based on my interaction with farmers and not any laboratory findings of any scientific data. But one thing was clear, no one said that they burn the stubble. I was little surprised. It may surprise many that two decades back no one had heard of any phenomenon called stubble burning even in the North Indian states of Punjab and Haryana. An Agricultural Extension Officer would be able to confirm this. Stubble burning was known in certain pockets resorting to jhum cultivation, but that was a phenomenon in certain pockets and scientists were working for this practice to end.

When did it start in food bowl of India?

The next question is when and where did this stubble burning begin? Who introduced this phenomenon? Was it an endeavour to alter the agrarian practices? Was there a hidden agenda to make gullible farmers contribute to the destabilisation of the economy of the country?

Make no mistake, this phenomenon has been introduced in two states which were the food bowl of the nation. One of them is a border area which had seen militancy affecting its agrarian economy for two decades not very far back. There are many for whom the wounds of militancy are still to heal.

Is it an attempt at destabilisation?

Also, recent attacks on Nirankari Bhavan in Rajsansi near Amritstar does reveal the unholy involvement of ISI through al Qaeda in these attacks. Not just that Gurdaspur (Pathankot), drug menace and such other dysfunctional events in recent past do have the ISI's stamp. Is the ISI, which is latently active through its sleeper cells in Punjab, also seeking to alter agrarian practices to discredit the farmers of Punjab in nation's eyes and foist disaffection in the state?

Indeed, their previous endeavour of destabilising the Indian economy through Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICNs) got a setback due to demonetisation. Is the ISI peddling an alternative endeavour? One possible method which could prove as litmus test for this could be to check whether the farming community in Pakistan on other side of Punjab indulges in stubble burning after harvest of a crop. We need to find the truth and combat the same.

(This article was originally published on Zee News. Read the <a href="http://zeenews.india.com/blogs/beyond-air-pollution-is-there-more-to-stubble-burning-than-meets-the-eye-2157663.html">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Diwali was celebrated this year. Surely with a Supreme Court's order for bursting of crackers between 8-10 PM. Indeed agitated and concerned was Honorable Supreme Court with the growing levels of pollution in the country overall and particularly in Delhi.

Diwali was celebrated this year. Surely with a Supreme Court's order for bursting of crackers between 8-10 PM. Indeed agitated and concerned was Honorable Supreme Court with the growing levels of pollution in the country overall and particularly in Delhi. It is a matter of concern which is not just agitating everyone but also affecting everyone's health. Especially the children growing up in Delhi are most vulnerable. I do not want to pass on any comment on Supreme Court's order. They adjudicated on whatever was the issue arraigned before them. We should respect the order. Delhi of an earlier era Let me share with the readers that I am a Delhite to the core I was born in Connaught Place, and have grown up and lived in South Delhi most part of my life except for brief interludes of living in the UK and Mumbai. The Delhi I grew up was the Delhi of 1970s and 1980s and the air was much purer in Delhi those days. Pollution was not known to us as children except a pun here or a jest there when someone farted. That was the only pollution we knew as children and youth. It was also related to lifestyles. Notwithstanding all the negative connotation of DTU (Don't Trust Us) or DTC (Disgraceful Transport Confusion), people overall were using these public transport as a primary mode of intra-city commute. Scooters were a rarity and cars were deemed elitist. Increasing pollution in Delhi However, the growth of the vehicle population has indeed grown by leaps and bounds in the last two decades which as a consequence has given rise to increasing pollution in our Delhi. A young scientist, Ms. Anumita Roychowdhury, of the Centre for Science and Environment has done real time and highly creditable work on this with an attendant crisis like shrinking public spaces due to parking, impact on public health etc. She really deserves kudos for this and her work has created awareness in the government circles to address the concerns. Both the Government of Delhi and the Government of India have been flagged because of this work and have calibrated several measures in combating this. But the sheer numbers are a matter of concern, which is becoming insurmountable for any counter measures to really have an impact. Venom multiplier Leaving the vehicular pollution behind, we are also concerned with pollution on account of several other factors like industrial pollution and illegal factories and dyeing units operating from households, on which the judiciary has indeed given appropriate directions from time to time. But one factor which generally leads to pollution during Diwali time is the stubble burning in the states of Punjab and Haryana. This results in air quality being rendered extremely poor. This, in turn, leads to a situation of Diwali crackers being a venom multiplier. It is this which I seek to examine and put in perspective. Was there stubble burning hitherto? As already recalled, I have been living in Delhi for one year short of six decades. This has endowed me with the opportunity to travel into nearby and neighbouring states like UP, Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan on quite a few occasions in different stages of life. I can say for sure that hitherto this trend of stubble burning was never in vogue. It was not even a known phenomenon. May also say for sure that during my travel in the hinterland areas neighbouring Delhi, it was not just sightseeing but I also had this opportunity to interact with the local rural populace, and I never once heard even a mention of stubble burning. Only recently has this practice begun amongst the farming community of northern India. Agrarian practices in other regions Let me also share with you experiences I have had with farmers of other regions of the country with whom I have had an opportunity to interact during these years. As an officer of the Ministry of Textiles, I had the opportunity to speak to inhabitants of Naupatna in Odisha. The vocation of the people here are farming and handloom weaving to supplement their income. While partaking of their excellent food I had in January 2016 ascertained what crops they grow. They informed that while paddy is a primary crop, the second crop was pulses, vegetables, etc. Again in April 2016, I had this opportunity to travel to hinterland of West Bengal from a handloom cluster in Fulia and Shantipur to Murshidabad handloom cluster. Handloom weaving is closely intertwined with the agrarian economy and here too the interaction with local inhabitants revealed that they generally grow paddy as the primary crop with a large platter of very exotic rural vegetables (contrary to myth, Bengalis consume many varieties of vegetables which are known only in the Southern and Eastern parts of the country). Further recently, I travelled to Tamil Nadu, where again my journey took me from Madurai to Dindigul, Natham, Sivagangai, Pillaiyarpatti, Rameswaram, Tirunelveli, Sankarankoil, Srivilliputhur, Satthur, and back to Madurai. I interacted intensively with local inhabitants. Being able to speak Tamil, I was at a distinct advantage of striking a chord with them. I was told by the farming community that they have two crops namely paddy being the primary one while the other being bananas, coconuts, palm, mangoes, etc. Now, in all these interactions I sought to know what they do after harvest of the first crop before sowing the second. They all responded uniformly that they plough the land to make it ready for next crop. When asked about the residue of the previous crop again there was a common response that the residue acts as a nutrient ('satthu' as told in Tamil to be me by a farmer). Let me make one thing clear, that this is based on my interaction with farmers and not any laboratory findings of any scientific data. But one thing was clear, no one said that they burn the stubble. I was little surprised. It may surprise many that two decades back no one had heard of any phenomenon called stubble burning even in the North Indian states of Punjab and Haryana. An Agricultural Extension Officer would be able to confirm this. Stubble burning was known in certain pockets resorting to jhum cultivation, but that was a phenomenon in certain pockets and scientists were working for this practice to end. When did it start in food bowl of India? The next question is when and where did this stubble burning begin? Who introduced this phenomenon? Was it an endeavour to alter the agrarian practices? Was there a hidden agenda to make gullible farmers contribute to the destabilisation of the economy of the country? Make no mistake, this phenomenon has been introduced in two states which were the food bowl of the nation. One of them is a border area which had seen militancy affecting its agrarian economy for two decades not very far back. There are many for whom the wounds of militancy are still to heal. Is it an attempt at destabilisation? Also, recent attacks on Nirankari Bhavan in Rajsansi near Amritstar does reveal the unholy involvement of ISI through al Qaeda in these attacks. Not just that Gurdaspur (Pathankot), drug menace and such other dysfunctional events in recent past do have the ISI's stamp. Is the ISI, which is latently active through its sleeper cells in Punjab, also seeking to alter agrarian practices to discredit the farmers of Punjab in nation's eyes and foist disaffection in the state? Indeed, their previous endeavour of destabilising the Indian economy through Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICNs) got a setback due to demonetisation. Is the ISI peddling an alternative endeavour? One possible method which could prove as litmus test for this could be to check whether the farming community in Pakistan on other side of Punjab indulges in stubble burning after harvest of a crop. We need to find the truth and combat the same. (This article was originally published on Zee News. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Beyond air pollution, is there more to stubble burning than meets the eye?

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Thursday met Prime Minister Narendra Modi to press for compensation to farmers in lieu of stubble burning.

Captain Amarinder apprised Prime Minister Modi that the problem of stubble burning could get aggravated and needed to be urgently addressed.

The Chief Minister also took the opportunity to thank the Prime Minister for the Central Government`s decision not to disturb the 60:40 ratio with respect to the appointment of officers in the UT of Chandigarh.

Captain Amarinder had, in recent weeks, expressed his strong protest over the constant efforts being made to disturb the fine balance in sharing of officers and other resources between Haryana and Punjab that had been achieved over a period of time after a great deal of effort.

He also urged the Prime Minister to ensure settlement of the Rs. 31000 crore CCL gap and requested for assistance for the preparation of the 550th birth anniversary celebrations of Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji.

Giving details of the meeting, an official spokesperson of the Punjab government later said the Chief Minister had urged Modi to advise the Finance Ministry to urgently settle the Rs. 31000 crore CCL gap on the principle of shared responsibilities.

Reiterating his demand for resettlement of gap in Food Cash Credit Account of Punjab, which had resulted from systemic and structural reasons, the Chief Minister told the Prime Minister that this should be settled on the principle of shared responsibilities amongst the stakeholders in the procurement of food grains for the country.

In fact, he pointed out, the matter had been discussed in detail in the internal report of the Ministry of Food and Public Distribution, referred to as the PK Jha Committee Report.

Noting that the Ministry of Finance, GoI, which was looking into the matter on a reference received from the Ministry of Food and Public Distribution, was yet to finalise the matter, Captain Amarinder sought the Prime Minister`s intervention to resolve the issue.

He urged the Prime Minister to advise the Ministry of Finance to reconsider and review the conversion of Rs. 31,000 crore as long-term loan as it cannot be solely attributed to the State of Punjab given the principle of shared responsibilities.

Citing similar commemorative events held in the past, when generous assistance packages were given by the Centre to the state government, the Chief Minister reminded the Prime Minister of his assurance that the Centre would provide due assistance to the Punjab government to celebrate the 550th birth anniversary of Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji next year in a befitting manner.

He also urged the Prime Minister to issue suitable directions to the Ministry of Culture and the National Implementation Committee, instituted in June this year, to provide the necessary support to the state to make suitable arrangements for the event. (ANI)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Thursday met Prime Minister Narendra Modi to press for compensation to farmers in lieu of stubble burning. Captain Amarinder apprised Prime Minister Modi that the problem of stubble burning could get aggravated and needed to be urgently addressed.

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Thursday met Prime Minister Narendra Modi to press for compensation to farmers in lieu of stubble burning. Captain Amarinder apprised Prime Minister Modi that the problem of stubble burning could get aggravated and needed to be urgently addressed. The Chief Minister also took the opportunity to thank the Prime Minister for the Central Government`s decision not to disturb the 60:40 ratio with respect to the appointment of officers in the UT of Chandigarh. Captain Amarinder had, in recent weeks, expressed his strong protest over the constant efforts being made to disturb the fine balance in sharing of officers and other resources between Haryana and Punjab that had been achieved over a period of time after a great deal of effort. He also urged the Prime Minister to ensure settlement of the Rs. 31000 crore CCL gap and requested for assistance for the preparation of the 550th birth anniversary celebrations of Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji. Giving details of the meeting, an official spokesperson of the Punjab government later said the Chief Minister had urged Modi to advise the Finance Ministry to urgently settle the Rs. 31000 crore CCL gap on the principle of shared responsibilities. Reiterating his demand for resettlement of gap in Food Cash Credit Account of Punjab, which had resulted from systemic and structural reasons, the Chief Minister told the Prime Minister that this should be settled on the principle of shared responsibilities amongst the stakeholders in the procurement of food grains for the country. In fact, he pointed out, the matter had been discussed in detail in the internal report of the Ministry of Food and Public Distribution, referred to as the PK Jha Committee Report. Noting that the Ministry of Finance, GoI, which was looking into the matter on a reference received from the Ministry of Food and Public Distribution, was yet to finalise the matter, Captain Amarinder sought the Prime Minister`s intervention to resolve the issue. He urged the Prime Minister to advise the Ministry of Finance to reconsider and review the conversion of Rs. 31,000 crore as long-term loan as it cannot be solely attributed to the State of Punjab given the principle of shared responsibilities. Citing similar commemorative events held in the past, when generous assistance packages were given by the Centre to the state government, the Chief Minister reminded the Prime Minister of his assurance that the Centre would provide due assistance to the Punjab government to celebrate the 550th birth anniversary of Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji next year in a befitting manner. He also urged the Prime Minister to issue suitable directions to the Ministry of Culture and the National Implementation Committee, instituted in June this year, to provide the necessary support to the state to make suitable arrangements for the event. (ANI)

Stubble burning: Punjab CM Amarinder meets PM to press for compensation

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Monday extended his sympathies with the farmers of the state over the prohibition on stubble burning but told them that the National Green Tribunal (NGT) laws must be followed.

Addressing a presser here, Singh said, "This is a law of National Green Tribunal. My sympathies are with the farmers, but law is law and the law must take its course. I have written twice to the Prime Minister, Agriculture Minister and the Food Processing Industries Minister to compensate farmers who do not burn stubble with an additional Rs 100 per quintal."

Singh further stated that if the Centre does not provide Rs 100 per quintal compensation to the farmers, it will be difficult to control stubble burning. Although many farmers have stopped burning stubble as they have resorted to converting it into bio-fuel, the practice still, to a limited extent, remains active in the state, the chief minister added.

As autumn sets in, bringing along with it the harvesting period for Kharif crops, the increasing cases of stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana are worsening the air pollution crisis in New Delhi and the neighbouring National Capital Region.

This in turn has necessitated the NGT to implement strict norms on the burning of stubble.However, farmers in Punjab on Saturday claimed that industries and vehicles majorly contribute to air pollution and not stubble burning.&nbsp;

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Monday extended his sympathies with the farmers of the state over the prohibition on stubble burning but told them that the National Green Tribunal (NGT) laws must be followed.

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Monday extended his sympathies with the farmers of the state over the prohibition on stubble burning but told them that the National Green Tribunal (NGT) laws must be followed. Addressing a presser here, Singh said, "This is a law of National Green Tribunal. My sympathies are with the farmers, but law is law and the law must take its course. I have written twice to the Prime Minister, Agriculture Minister and the Food Processing Industries Minister to compensate farmers who do not burn stubble with an additional Rs 100 per quintal." Singh further stated that if the Centre does not provide Rs 100 per quintal compensation to the farmers, it will be difficult to control stubble burning. Although many farmers have stopped burning stubble as they have resorted to converting it into bio-fuel, the practice still, to a limited extent, remains active in the state, the chief minister added. As autumn sets in, bringing along with it the harvesting period for Kharif crops, the increasing cases of stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana are worsening the air pollution crisis in New Delhi and the neighbouring National Capital Region. This in turn has necessitated the NGT to implement strict norms on the burning of stubble.However, farmers in Punjab on Saturday claimed that industries and vehicles majorly contribute to air pollution and not stubble burning.

Punjab CM advises farmers to abide by NGT laws on stubble burning

The National Green Tribunal has called for a meeting of Ministry of Agriculture and states of Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh on 28 November.

The NGT has also asked the&nbsp;NTPC to join the meeting.

The meeting is scheduled for 11 am.

The meeting is convened to decide on transportation and use of stubble.

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NGT directs NTPC, Ministry of Agriculture and states of Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh to convene a meeting at 11 am on 28 November to decide on transportation, subsequent use of stubble and compensating farmers adequately. Next date of hearing is 6 December.
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/933236964009984000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 22, 2017</a></blockquote>
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The meeting will try to formulate a workable solution for stubble burning.&nbsp;

The Thermal Power plant has expressed its willingness to use agricultural residue in power plants. However, they can use it as five per cent of the fuel.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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NGT asks all the concerned states to provide workable solution for stubble burning. NTPC says they are willing to use agricultural residue in power plants, however it may not be possible to use it directly as they can only use it as 5 percent of the fuel.
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/933236613148172289?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 22, 2017</a></blockquote>
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The NGT&#39;s decision is in response to the rising level of air pollutant&nbsp;in Delhi and adjoining states.

The pollution level rises after the farmers resort to stubble burning to clear off the agricultural fields for next season.

The meeting is convened to decide on transportation and use of stubble

The National Green Tribunal has called for a meeting of Ministry of Agriculture and states of Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh on 28 November. The NGT has also asked the NTPC to join the meeting. The meeting is scheduled for 11 am. The meeting is convened to decide on transportation and use of stubble. NGT directs NTPC, Ministry of Agriculture and states of Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh to convene a meeting at 11 am on 28 November to decide on transportation, subsequent use of stubble and compensating farmers adequately. Next date of hearing is 6 December. — ANI (@ANI) November 22, 2017 × The meeting will try to formulate a workable solution for stubble burning. The Thermal Power plant has expressed its willingness to use agricultural residue in power plants. However, they can use it as five per cent of the fuel. NGT asks all the concerned states to provide workable solution for stubble burning. NTPC says they are willing to use agricultural residue in power plants, however it may not be possible to use it directly as they can only use it as 5 percent of the fuel. — ANI (@ANI) November 22, 2017 × The NGT's decision is in response to the rising level of air pollutant in Delhi and adjoining states. The pollution level rises after the farmers resort to stubble burning to clear off the agricultural fields for next season.

NGT called for a meeting of Ministry of Agriculture, states and NTPC on Nov 28

Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh has refused to meet Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to discuss the issue of air pollution, resulting from the burning of crop stubble.

Kejriwal tweeted Singh, asking for an appointment:&nbsp;

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/capt_amarinder?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@capt_amarinder</a> Sir, I am coming to Chandigarh on Wed to meet Haryana CM. Would be grateful if u cud spare sometime to meet me. It is in collective interest
&mdash; Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal/status/930284661867081729?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 14, 2017</a></blockquote>
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Kerjiwal, who will be meeting Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar in Chandigarh on Wednesday had also had trouble meeting Khattar.&nbsp;

Kejriwal had asked to meet Khattar while the latter was in Delhi but Khattar had said he wouldn&#39;t have the time to do so in Delhi and that it would be better if they met in Chandigarh.&nbsp;

Amarinder Singh responded to Kejriwal&#39;s request for a meeting saying he failed to understand why the Delhi chief minister was &quot;trying to force his hand, knowing well that any such discussion would be meaningless and futile&quot;.&nbsp;

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I fail to understand why the Delhi chief minister is trying to force his hand, knowing well that any such discussion would be meaningless and futile: Captain Amarinder Singh <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AirPollution?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AirPollution</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StubbleBurning?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StubbleBurning</a> (File pic) <a href="https://t.co/hqsQ0rY174">pic.twitter.com/hqsQ0rY174</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/930433242074718208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 14, 2017</a></blockquote>
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He added that Kejriwal should stop politicising the serious issue of stubble burning.

Amarinder also alleged the AAP leader was trying to divert public attention from his government&#39;s failure to check the problem of pollution in Delhi.

Delhi&#39;s pollution problem, he said, is the result mainly of urban pollution caused by &quot;mismanaged&quot; transport and &quot;unplanned&quot; industrial development.&nbsp;

Amarinder added that he does not have luxury time like Kejriwal and that he (Kejriwal) should focus his attention on resolving issues instead of wasting his time by holding useless discussions.&nbsp;

Amarinder had earlier also said there was no point in him meeting Kejriwal since the stubble burning issue would have to be resolved by the centre.

Amarinder&#39;s media advisor Raveen Thukral also put out a tweet, quoting the Punjab CM as saying to Kejriwal: &quot;Stop politicising the pollution issue, you know any meeting between us would be useless.&quot;&nbsp;

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Stop politicising the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/pollution?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#pollution</a> issue, you know any meeting between us would be useless, and in any case now that the apex court is also seized of the matter, let us leave it to them and the central govt to find long-term solutions: <a href="https://twitter.com/capt_amarinder?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@capt_amarinder</a> to <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ArvindKejriwal</a>
&mdash; RaveenMediaAdvPunCM (@RT_MediaAdvPbCM) <a href="https://twitter.com/RT_MediaAdvPbCM/status/930417302444556288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 14, 2017</a></blockquote>
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The tweet added that the problem and solutions to it would be better left to the Supreme Court and the central government.&nbsp;

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Amarinder said he failed to understand why the Delhi chief minister was 'trying to force his hand, knowing well that any such discussion would be meaningless and futile'

Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh has refused to meet Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to discuss the issue of air pollution, resulting from the burning of crop stubble. Kejriwal tweeted Singh, asking for an appointment: .@capt_amarinder Sir, I am coming to Chandigarh on Wed to meet Haryana CM. Would be grateful if u cud spare sometime to meet me. It is in collective interest — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) November 14, 2017 × Kerjiwal, who will be meeting Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar in Chandigarh on Wednesday had also had trouble meeting Khattar. Kejriwal had asked to meet Khattar while the latter was in Delhi but Khattar had said he wouldn't have the time to do so in Delhi and that it would be better if they met in Chandigarh. Amarinder Singh responded to Kejriwal's request for a meeting saying he failed to understand why the Delhi chief minister was "trying to force his hand, knowing well that any such discussion would be meaningless and futile". I fail to understand why the Delhi chief minister is trying to force his hand, knowing well that any such discussion would be meaningless and futile: Captain Amarinder Singh #AirPollution #StubbleBurning (File pic) pic.twitter.com/hqsQ0rY174 — ANI (@ANI) November 14, 2017 × He added that Kejriwal should stop politicising the serious issue of stubble burning. Amarinder also alleged the AAP leader was trying to divert public attention from his government's failure to check the problem of pollution in Delhi. Delhi's pollution problem, he said, is the result mainly of urban pollution caused by "mismanaged" transport and "unplanned" industrial development. Amarinder added that he does not have luxury time like Kejriwal and that he (Kejriwal) should focus his attention on resolving issues instead of wasting his time by holding useless discussions. Amarinder had earlier also said there was no point in him meeting Kejriwal since the stubble burning issue would have to be resolved by the centre. Amarinder's media advisor Raveen Thukral also put out a tweet, quoting the Punjab CM as saying to Kejriwal: "Stop politicising the pollution issue, you know any meeting between us would be useless." Stop politicising the #pollution issue, you know any meeting between us would be useless, and in any case now that the apex court is also seized of the matter, let us leave it to them and the central govt to find long-term solutions: @capt_amarinder to @ArvindKejriwal — RaveenMediaAdvPunCM (@RT_MediaAdvPbCM) November 14, 2017 × The tweet added that the problem and solutions to it would be better left to the Supreme Court and the central government.

Pollution: Punjab CM Amarinder Singh again refuses to meet Kejriwal

The Supreme Court on Monday issued notices to the Center, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana and Delhi governments on the petition on stubble burning and dust pollution.

Stating that it&#39;s an emergency situation, the Supreme Court sought expeditious action from the authorities.

The court also said that there will be no stay on matters pertaining to pollution which is going on before any other court.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court was hearing a plea seeking to curb rising pollution in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR).

A Bench, comprising Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud, considered the submission of lawyer R.K. Kapoor that rise in dust particles on roads, stubble burning in Delhi&rsquo;s neighbouring States like Haryana and Punjab have led to an alarming rise in pollution levels in the NCR and adjoining areas.

&ldquo;We cannot ignore the pollution,&rdquo; the Bench said earlier.&nbsp;

The plea sought a direction to the Centre and the States concerned to take steps to curb road dust and stubble burning. It also sought effective implementation of the odd-even car rationing scheme.

&nbsp;

Stating that it's an emergency situation, the Supreme Court sought expeditious action from the authorities.

The Supreme Court on Monday issued notices to the Center, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana and Delhi governments on the petition on stubble burning and dust pollution. Stating that it's an emergency situation, the Supreme Court sought expeditious action from the authorities. The court also said that there will be no stay on matters pertaining to pollution which is going on before any other court. The Supreme Court was hearing a plea seeking to curb rising pollution in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR). A Bench, comprising Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud, considered the submission of lawyer R.K. Kapoor that rise in dust particles on roads, stubble burning in Delhi’s neighbouring States like Haryana and Punjab have led to an alarming rise in pollution levels in the NCR and adjoining areas. “We cannot ignore the pollution,” the Bench said earlier. The plea sought a direction to the Centre and the States concerned to take steps to curb road dust and stubble burning. It also sought effective implementation of the odd-even car rationing scheme.

Air pollution: Supreme Court issues notices to Centre, state govts

The National Green Tribunal has asked the Delhi government to impose Rs one lakh fine on builders who violate its directives of halting construction work in the city.&nbsp;

The NGT has asked builders to stop&nbsp;construction work for few days to reduce the level of pollutants from the air.&nbsp;

It has also directed state governments to ensure that farmers are not burning crops.&nbsp;

The tribunal has said to charge a considerable&nbsp;amount of fine from the salary of the&nbsp;responsible officer if they continue to indulge in crop burning.

(With inputs from ANI)

NGT will put a fine of Rs 1 lakh on builders if they continue with Construction in Delhi

The National Green Tribunal has asked the Delhi government to impose Rs one lakh fine on builders who violate its directives of halting construction work in the city. The NGT has asked builders to stop construction work for few days to reduce the level of pollutants from the air. It has also directed state governments to ensure that farmers are not burning crops. The tribunal has said to charge a considerable amount of fine from the salary of the responsible officer if they continue to indulge in crop burning. (With inputs from ANI)

Delhi: NGT warns builders to fine Rs 1 lakh in case construction is reported

The smog that has enveloped Delhi-NCR for the past two days has led to severe spike in the levels of particulate matters which can&nbsp;cause allergies or aggravate already existing allergies and decrease lung immunity.

The PM2.5 and PM10 levels at Lodhi Road on Wednesday afternoon was 500, way above the prescribed safety limit of 60. The weather department has predicted similar situation to prevail on Thursday as well.

Doctors have issued a health advisory asking people to avoid outdoor activities like jogging and cycling. They say&nbsp;such a high level of air pollution&nbsp;can cause stroke, heart disease, lung cancer, and chronic and acute respiratory diseases.

&quot;A thick blanket of smog has engulfed Delhi-NCR, and many areas of Punjab and Haryana. This is going to continue for the next three days. The smog is a result of moisture in the air and very low wind speed,&quot; said Dr K Sathi Devi, a weather scientist.

Many people are complaining of burning sensation in their eyes and difficulty in breathing.

Vikas Maurya, senior consultant at Fortis,&nbsp;suggested that air purifying plants like Aloe Vera, Ivy and Spider Plant should be kept at home and in offices.

Fruits rich in Vitamin C, magnesium, omega fatty acids should be consumed more to fight any allergy or infection, he added.

The air quality deteriorated on Tuesday with visibility levels dropping sharply. The low visibility affected flight services and movement of trains.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has written to the Centre seeking appointment with Union health minister. Kejriwal has termed Delhi a &#39;gas chamber&#39;.

The smog that has enveloped Delhi-NCR for the past two days has led to severe spike in the levels of particulate matters which can cause allergies or aggravate already existing allergies and decrease lung immunity.

The smog that has enveloped Delhi-NCR for the past two days has led to severe spike in the levels of particulate matters which can cause allergies or aggravate already existing allergies and decrease lung immunity. The PM2.5 and PM10 levels at Lodhi Road on Wednesday afternoon was 500, way above the prescribed safety limit of 60. The weather department has predicted similar situation to prevail on Thursday as well. Doctors have issued a health advisory asking people to avoid outdoor activities like jogging and cycling. They say such a high level of air pollution can cause stroke, heart disease, lung cancer, and chronic and acute respiratory diseases. "A thick blanket of smog has engulfed Delhi-NCR, and many areas of Punjab and Haryana. This is going to continue for the next three days. The smog is a result of moisture in the air and very low wind speed," said Dr K Sathi Devi, a weather scientist. Many people are complaining of burning sensation in their eyes and difficulty in breathing. Vikas Maurya, senior consultant at Fortis, suggested that air purifying plants like Aloe Vera, Ivy and Spider Plant should be kept at home and in offices. Fruits rich in Vitamin C, magnesium, omega fatty acids should be consumed more to fight any allergy or infection, he added. The air quality deteriorated on Tuesday with visibility levels dropping sharply. The low visibility affected flight services and movement of trains. Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has written to the Centre seeking appointment with Union health minister. Kejriwal has termed Delhi a 'gas chamber'.

Pollution levels: Here's how smog can harm you in 'gas chamber' Delhi

Delhi High Court on Tuesday asked several states to inform about the action taken against stubble burning.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-pollution-tips-to-choose-air-purifier-23667">The court asked Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, and Rajasthan to inform about the action taken against stubble burning.</a>

Observing that the situation was grave in wake of advisories issued against sending children to school &amp; discouraging morning walks, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-wakes-up-to-hazardous-smog-23655">the court said that stubble burning may be the visible villain but there are other contributory factors too, the court observed.</a>

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Air Pollution matter: Delhi High Court asks Punjab, Haryana, Delhi and Rajasthan to inform about action taken against stubble burning.
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/927850756593434625?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2017</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, with the air quality in Delhi getting worse, the CISF ordered the issuance of over 9,000 face masks for its personnel deployed to guard the IGI Airport, the Delhi Metro and other government ministries and installations here.

A senior officer of the paramilitary force said CISF Director General (DG) O P Singh has ordered for the issuance of the masks so that the men and women of the force out in the open, could better combat the severe toxic smog.

&quot;While 2,000 protective face masks are being issued immediately, 7,000 more will be sent to all the units in Delhi in the next few hours,&quot; he said.

The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), a paramilitary force under the Union home ministry, is tasked to guard the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, the Delhi Metro and a number of government departments and ministries in the national capital region.

A blanket of thick haze enveloped Delhi this morning, as pollution levels breached the permissible standards by multiple times.

The court asked Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, and Rajasthan to inform about the action taken against stubble burning.

Delhi High Court on Tuesday asked several states to inform about the action taken against stubble burning. The court asked Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, and Rajasthan to inform about the action taken against stubble burning. Observing that the situation was grave in wake of advisories issued against sending children to school & discouraging morning walks, the court said that stubble burning may be the visible villain but there are other contributory factors too, the court observed. Air Pollution matter: Delhi High Court asks Punjab, Haryana, Delhi and Rajasthan to inform about action taken against stubble burning. — ANI (@ANI) November 7, 2017 × Meanwhile, with the air quality in Delhi getting worse, the CISF ordered the issuance of over 9,000 face masks for its personnel deployed to guard the IGI Airport, the Delhi Metro and other government ministries and installations here. A senior officer of the paramilitary force said CISF Director General (DG) O P Singh has ordered for the issuance of the masks so that the men and women of the force out in the open, could better combat the severe toxic smog. "While 2,000 protective face masks are being issued immediately, 7,000 more will be sent to all the units in Delhi in the next few hours," he said. The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), a paramilitary force under the Union home ministry, is tasked to guard the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, the Delhi Metro and a number of government departments and ministries in the national capital region. A blanket of thick haze enveloped Delhi this morning, as pollution levels breached the permissible standards by multiple times.

Delhi HC asks states to inform about action taken against stubble burning

The figures of the Air Quality Index in Delhi have revealed a further rise in pollution level.

Anand Vihar came under the &quot;hazardous level&quot;&nbsp;with&nbsp;388 Air Quality Index.&nbsp;

Punjabi Bagh with 296 and Shadipur&nbsp;at 254 were counted as &quot;very&nbsp;unhealthy&quot;.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a>&#39;s Anand Vihar at 388 (Hazardous) on Air Quality Index, Punjabi Bagh at 296 (Very unhealthy), Shadipur at 254 (Very Unhealthy). <a href="https://t.co/q6EsqtaeC4">pic.twitter.com/q6EsqtaeC4</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/920509584103571456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 18, 2017</a></blockquote>
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The pollution level in Delhi has been rising&nbsp;consistently due to recent stubble burning in and around Delhi.

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-refuses-to-lift-ban-on-firecrackers-in-delhi-ncr-says-its-an-experiment-for-1-year-22393" target="_blank">Supreme Court had also put a ban on firecrackers</a> to regulate the pollution caused by crackers in Diwali.&nbsp;

Punjabi Bagh with 296 and Shadipur?at 254 was counted as 'very?unhealthy'

The figures of the Air Quality Index in Delhi have revealed a further rise in pollution level. Anand Vihar came under the "hazardous level" with 388 Air Quality Index. Punjabi Bagh with 296 and Shadipur at 254 were counted as "very unhealthy". #Delhi's Anand Vihar at 388 (Hazardous) on Air Quality Index, Punjabi Bagh at 296 (Very unhealthy), Shadipur at 254 (Very Unhealthy). pic.twitter.com/q6EsqtaeC4 — ANI (@ANI) October 18, 2017 × The pollution level in Delhi has been rising consistently due to recent stubble burning in and around Delhi. The Supreme Court had also put a ban on firecrackers to regulate the pollution caused by crackers in Diwali.

Delhi air quality deteriorates further, Anand Vihar at hazardous level

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