Supreme Court Furious Over CAQM Report: "Nothing is Being Done"

 

The Supreme Court expressed its anger over the report submitted by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) regarding stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana. The Court criticized the commission for not taking effective action to prevent stubble burning incidents in the states, which significantly contribute to air pollution in the region.

The Supreme Court reprimanded Punjab, Haryana, and the commission for failing to implement measures to control stubble burning. The bench observed that despite earlier orders and directions, the issue persists, and no concrete steps have been taken to prevent it.

The Court has now directed the commission to submit a new status report within a week. The next hearing on the matter is scheduled for October 16.

CAQM's Lack of Implementation

The CAQM informed the Court that it had constituted a special task force to ensure compliance with directives. This task force will monitor and review the enforcement of measures in Punjab and Haryana. However, the Supreme Court was not satisfied with the commission’s efforts, noting that incidents of stubble burning continue unabated.

Role of States and Local Bodies

The Supreme Court emphasized that state governments must actively implement policies and support farmers to prevent stubble burning. It was noted that Punjab has recorded 129 instances of stubble burning this year, while Haryana reported 12. The Court directed both states to ensure strict compliance with regulations and create awareness among farmers about the adverse effects of stubble burning on air quality.

Observations by the Supreme Court

• The Court directed all state pollution control boards to appoint an independent head by April 25, 2025, to ensure impartial functioning.
• The commission was instructed to establish a central mechanism to monitor the impact of stubble burning on air quality in real-time.
• The Court also ordered the central government to ensure that alternative methods and equipment are provided to farmers to discourage stubble burning.

Additional Measures

The Court suggested measures such as incentivizing the use of straw management machinery, increasing penalties for violations, and collaborating with local law enforcement to ensure compliance. The bench remarked that the commission must work proactively to prevent stubble burning and mitigate its impact on the environment.

The Supreme Court has scheduled the next hearing on October 16 to review the progress made by the states and the commission.