DCs get more teeth to check farm fires

With the air quality expected to worsen in the coming weeks due to stubble burning, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has provided more teeth to the Deputy Commissioners and District Magistrates in Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan (NCR districts), UP and Delhi.

They have been empowered to take penal action against government officials who fail to curb the menace.

The directive, issued on October 1, comes as north India braces for peak pollution season. Paddy residue burning in Punjab and Haryana remains a major contributor to the toxic winter smog that engulfs Delhi and neighbouring states.

Earlier, district heads were permitted to file complaints against negligent officers before judicial magistrates. The revised order, issued in ‘supersession’ of CAQM’s October 10, 2024, directive, now authorises Deputy Commissioners, District Collectors and District Magistrates across Punjab, Haryana, NCR areas of Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh, and the NCT of Delhi to lodge a complaint before the jurisdictional judicial magistrate in case of inaction by officials, including nodal officers, supervisory officers at various levels and Station House Officers — responsible for enforcing the ban on stubble burning in their jurisdiction.

The timing of the order is significant. On September 17, the Supreme Court expressed dissatisfaction with weak enforcement of farm-fire bans and suggested stricter measures, including arrests, to deter violators. The matter will be heard again on October 8.

Despite repeated advisories, stubble burning continues across north India, though incidents have declined in recent years. CAQM stressed that farm fires are already banned under state orders, and that accountability must rest with enforcement officials.

Dr Virinder Sharma, CAQM member who signed the directive, said district administrations must remain “constantly vigilant” and ensure the “complete elimination” of crop residue burning.