The issue of increased air pollution during winter in North India is a pressing concern that requires our urgent attention and effective solutions.

While various factors contribute to this environmental challenge, two key contributors stand out prominently: the alarming increase in road transport and the construction boom in the region.

The rise in road transport activities has significantly added to the already high levels of pollution in the air. The ever-increasing number of vehicles on the roads, coupled with outdated emissions standards and lax enforcement of regulations, has led to a spike in harmful pollutants being released into the atmosphere. This has not only degraded air quality but also posed serious health risks to the residents of North India.

Similarly, the construction boom in the region has further exacerbated the issue of air pollution. The extensive use of heavy machinery, construction materials, and waste disposal practices in the construction sector has contributed to the release of particulate matter and other pollutants into the air. This unchecked development has put additional strain on the already burdened air quality in North India, leading to adverse effects on public health and the environment.

However, it is shocking that instead of addressing these key sources of pollution, some interest groups have chosen to scapegoat farmers for stubble burning. Stubble burning, a practice that has been a part of agricultural traditions for thousands of years, is often erroneously blamed for the deteriorating air quality in the region.

While stubble burning does contribute to air pollution, its impact is relatively smaller compared to the emissions from road transport and construction activities.

It should be noted that farmers benefit from burning stubble and crop residues in several ways…

Firstly, burning crop residue can release nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium back into the soil, making them available for the next crop cycle. The ash left behind can act as a natural fertilizer.

Secondly, fire helps in reducing the population of pests and pathogens that may survive in the leftover stubble. This can decrease the reliance on chemical pesticides and improve crop health.

Thirdly, burning can help in clearing fields quickly, making them ready for planting new crops. It reduces the time needed for soil preparation and can improve seedbed conditions.

Fourthly, fire can kill weeds, providing a cleaner field for the next planting season and reducing competition for nutrients and water.

Let us not forget that for many farmers, burning is a low-cost method for managing crop residues compared to mechanical alternatives which require machinery and labour.

Policymakers, industry stakeholders, and the public must recognize the real drivers of air pollution in North India and take collective action to address them. Implementing stringent emissions standards for vehicles, promoting sustainable transportation options, regulating construction practices, and investing in cleaner technologies are essential steps to mitigate air pollution in the region.

Moreover, instead of unfairly targeting farmers for stubble burning, efforts should be focused on providing them with viable alternatives and support systems to manage crop residues effectively. By adopting a comprehensive and inclusive approach that addresses all sources of pollution, North India can strive towards a cleaner and healthier environment for all its residents.