Residents expressed frustration, urging long-term solutions. One Delhi citizen suggested authorities “plant at least 2 crore trees” to combat pollution. Experts cited stubble burning in neighboring states, vehicular emissions, industrial activity, and stagnant weather conditions as major contributors trapping pollutants over the city.

Amid public outcry, the Delhi High Court directed schools to avoid outdoor sports from November to January to safeguard children from harmful smog exposure. Simultaneously, the Supreme Court ordered subsistence support for workers affected by GRAP-III measures, implemented on 11 November, which include temporary restrictions on construction, industrial activity, and vehicular movement to reduce pollution.

Medical experts warned that AQI levels approaching 400 could cause respiratory issues, throat and eye irritation, and aggravate chronic conditions. Citizens are advised to limit outdoor exposure, wear N95 masks, and use air purifiers indoors.

Environmentalists emphasized the need for long-term solutions, including stricter enforcement against stubble burning, expanding urban green cover, and promoting public transport to reduce vehicular pollution. The worsening air quality crisis underscores the urgent need for coordinated action between the government, judiciary, and citizens to protect public health and the environment.

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State authorities have intensified awareness campaigns, urging farmers to adopt eco-friendly alternatives such as crop residue management machines, bio-decomposers, and crop diversification. Pamphlet distribution, village meetings, and radio campaigns are being carried out to educate farmers about the environmental and health hazards caused by stubble burning.

Punjab Agriculture Department officials stated that penalties are being imposed on violators, but the government’s focus remains on creating awareness rather than punishment. They added that support schemes and subsidies on residue management equipment are being provided to farmers to reduce the burden of switching to sustainable practices.

Every year, stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana contributes significantly to the toxic smog that engulfs Delhi and other parts of North India. With air quality already beginning to deteriorate in parts of the National Capital Region, experts warn that unchecked farm fires could worsen the situation in the coming weeks.

Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann recently appealed to farmers to cooperate with the government, emphasizing that protecting public health and the environment is a collective responsibility. He assured that his government is committed to helping farmers with practical solutions, but stressed that the practice of stubble burning must be eliminated.

Environmental activists have welcomed the intensified campaign but say stronger enforcement and long-term agricultural reforms are needed to address the root of the issue.

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