The Supreme Court of India on Wednesday expressed serious concern over the rising incidents of stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana, which have worsened the air quality in the Delhi-NCR region, and directed both state governments to submit a status report on the steps taken to curb the practice.
Bench Seeks Accountability from States
A bench comprising Chief Justice BR Gavai and Justices K Vinod Chandran and NV Anjaria was hearing multiple petitions related to air pollution in Delhi-NCR.
During the hearing, the court was informed that over 4,360 incidents of stubble burning had been recorded across Punjab and Haryana between September 15 and November 10, 2025.
The court sought a comprehensive response from the two states, emphasising the urgency of the situation given Delhi’s worsening air quality.
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CAQM Highlights Persistent Problem
In a 46-page affidavit, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) stated that stubble burning continues to be a “serious concern”, significantly contributing to the seasonal rise in pollution in the National Capital Region.
The affidavit described the phenomenon as recurring and noted that despite extensive awareness drives, incidents of field residue burning remain alarmingly high.
Over 1,500 Polluting Units Closed
According to CAQM data, 4,195 incidents of stubble burning were reported in Punjab and 363 incidents in Haryana during the specified period.
To strengthen enforcement, 31 flying squads, assisted by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), were deployed to monitor field-level implementation of anti-burning measures.
The affidavit also revealed that 1,556 industrial units violating pollution control norms were shut down across Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan.
CAQM stated that it has given “highest priority” to preventing paddy stubble burning through enforcement, technology-based interventions, and targeted policy actions.
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Next Hearing on November 17
During the hearing, an advocate urged the implementation of Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-IV) in Delhi as air quality dipped to the ‘severe’ category.
Taking note, Chief Justice Gavai directed both Punjab and Haryana to submit their responses on measures undertaken to reduce stubble burning.
The matter will be heard next on November 17, when the apex court is expected to issue further directives.
