These days, apart from India, farmers are also being arrested in the neighboring country Pakistan. The reason for these arrests at both places is the same – pollution. At least 18 farmers have been arrested in Haryana for burning stubble. Strict steps are also being taken to control pollution in the Punjab province of Pakistan. More than 70 farmers have been arrested in Pakistan's Punjab province. The step was taken after farmers tried to clear the paddy fields by illegally burning stubble. Burning of stubble is a major factor in increasing pollution in the capital Delhi. Same is the situation in Lahore, Pakistan.
71 people arrested in Punjab province
According to police in Pakistan's Punjab province, more than 182 complaints have been filed and 71 people have been arrested for burning stubble and garbage, operating illegal brick kilns and driving vehicles emitting smoke. Senior minister of Punjab province Maryam Aurangzeb said resources have been allocated for artificial rainfall, with each artificial rainfall costing between Rs 5 million and Rs 7 million.
Delhi recorded an air quality index (AQI) of 320 on Tuesday morning, which falls in the “very poor” category according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). AQI 0-50 is considered good, while AQI between 400-500 can be hazardous to health. Delhi was recorded as the second most polluted city this year, while Lahore remained at the first position. Pakistan's Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz stressed the need for “climate diplomacy” with India to tackle smoke and smog.
challenge of pollution
Every year in winter, when temperatures drop, Delhi and surrounding areas grapple with the problem of air pollution, where dust from construction works, vehicle emissions and smoke are found trapped in the cold air. Officials say a large part of it comes from neighboring states like Punjab and Haryana, where there is a tradition of stubble burning. The pollution caused by this increases the risk of respiratory diseases, and the administration is constantly advising the public to follow health-related guidelines.
The Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Department of the Haryana government has suspended 24 officials for alleged failure to take adequate steps to stop incidents of stubble burning in their respective areas. An order in this regard was issued on October 20. The order mentioned that the officers have been suspended on administrative grounds.
