Farm fires: Supreme Court asserts halt to crop residue burning in Punjab and adjacent states
New Delhi, November 10: The Supreme Court, addressing the concerning air pollution in the Delhi-NCR region, emphasised the imperative need to halt crop residue burning in Punjab and neighbouring states. The bench, presided over by Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul and including Justices Sudhanshu Dhulia and Ahsanuddin Amanullah, expressed frustration at the lack of tangible action despite numerous reports and committees addressing the pollution crisis.
During the hearing, the court highlighted the necessity for practical solutions on the ground level, emphasising the urgency of the situation. It demanded visible results in addressing the severe pollution affecting the region. Acknowledging efforts to control farm fires, the court was apprised of ongoing endeavours to curb the practice of burning crop residues.
This crucial issue stems from a plea filed in 1985 by environmentalist MC Mehta on air pollution. The matter has continued to evolve, with the problem of crop residue burning becoming a focal point during the ongoing proceedings.
- With inputs from agencies