This year, a 57 percent decrease in stubble burning cases has been recorded in Gurdaspur district. Despite this, the air quality is still poor. The air quality index is currently around 134, which is considered unhealthy. Of course, fewer fires have occurred in the fields, making them unlikely to be blamed for the pollution. On the other hand, experts believe that the lack of rainfall is contributing to the decline in the air quality index.
According to information, only 86 cases of field fires have been reported via satellite in the district this year. This figure is significantly lower than the 199 cases reported last year in 2024, compared to 359 cases in 2023. Thus, a decline of over 57 percent in field fires this year indicates the success of the stubble management campaign. According to officials, this year, due to awareness campaigns among farmers, availability of machinery, and monitoring and strict action by the administration, there has been a significant reduction in stubble burning.
Why is air quality declining instead of improving?
Although fewer fires have occurred in fields, the air quality index in Gurdaspur appears to be increasing in many areas instead of improving. According to the Pollution Control Board, air pollution has increased, and the main reason for this is believed to be the prolonged lack of rainfall. According to the Meteorological Department, due to the lack of rain in the district for the past several weeks, there is a large amount of dust and dirt particles in the air. Daily vehicular traffic and dust from construction work are also contributing to air pollution.
Normally, air quality should improve due to the reduction in stubble burning, but this time the situation appears to be the opposite. For the past few days, the district’s air quality index has been recorded around 130 to 140, which falls in the ‘poor zone’. According to doctors, the polluted air poses a serious concern for the elderly, young children, and asthmatics. Cases of coughs, sore throats, eye irritation, and respiratory problems are on the rise.
