NCR might be Engulfed Smog Again due to Farm Fires
In the next few days, the northern region of India shall be engulfed in pollution. Delhi will be adversely affected. It might shoot back into the most polluted cities of the world list. And all of this is due to farm fires.
A vast number of farmers in Punjab and Haryana will continue their annual ritual. They will dispose of the paddy straw setting fire to it. This has brought with it the fear of smog across Delhi. This is happening despite the efforts of the centre. They dished out Rs. 1,000 crore to the two states in order to fight stubble-burning.
All the farmers from Sangrur, Patiala, Bathinda, Mansa, Barnala, Ambala, Yamunanagar, Sonipat and Rohtak districts have said that they have no choice but to set fire to the crops. They do not understand the implications of farm fires. According to them, the cost of operating the subsidised straw management machine eats into the minuscule profits of medium, small and marginal farmers.
Also, there is a campaign being run in Punjab which is supporting and encouraging paddy burning. This is further adding fuel to fire. Slogans like “Kisan di majboori hai, nard nu aag lagauni zaroori hai” are continuously propagated with the help of loudspeakers. This is after the Punjab government has provided 50% subsidiary on the straw management machinery.
However, the farmers are not convinced. According to the farmers, having equipment in one thing and using it in farms is another thing. On their front, the farmers are also justified. Even after gaining subsidies, the cost of using the combine harvesters with straw management technology far exceeds the amount that can be given to balance their profits.
All in all, the farm fires will not be receding this year either. Take preventive measures. Buy and keep masks and other pollution-protection equipment handy.
