Chairman of the Commission for Air Quality Management, Rajesh Verma has directed the concerned authorities in Punjab to intensify efforts to prevent stubble burning in the state. Mr Verma also appreciated the efforts made by the state government in bringing down the stubble burning count by nearly 71 percent as compared to last year. In a review meeting on paddy stubble management with Punjab Chief Secretary KAP Sinha and senior officials, Verma asked authorities to take proactive measures to control farm fires until November 30, when the burning season peaks.

As the air quality index (AQI) in many districts of Punjab is unhealthy, Amritsar today recorded an AQI of 326 which comes under ‘Very Poor’ category, whereas, the City Beautiful Chandigarh is choking under ‘Severe’ air quality of 460 recorded today by 11.00 AM. Experts believe that the fall in temperature, resulting in moisture and higher air density which is not allowing pollutants to dissipate is also contributing to pollution. These pollutants are dust and urban pollution like industrial and vehicle emissions. However, the rising farm fires are further adding to smog. Till last evening, 509 incidents of farm fires were reported in the state taking the total farm fire incidents this season between September 15 to November 13 to 7,621. The Met Department has not predicted any relief from smog in the absence of rain for another 10 days. Meanwhile, Rajesh Verma said that Commission for Air Quality Management will continue to monitor the situation closely and support the state government to ensure effective implementation of enforcement measures. Rajesh Bali, Akasvani News, Jalandhar.