Punjab and Haryana Farmers Use Strategic Timing to Evade Crop Burning Detection

Farmers in Punjab and Haryana are reportedly burning stubble at night to avoid detection by satellites and local officials who are trying to control farm fires that have been contributing to the pollution in Delhi NCR.

Official data shows a decrease in farm fire incidents this year, with nearly 21,000 reported between September 15 and November 7 in Punjab, a 30% drop from the same period last year. However, it’s suspected that many incidents go undetected, as the daily farm fire count must be updated by 8 pm, giving farmers an opportunity to burn fields after that time.

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In Haryana, the Haryana Space Applications Centre uses satellite imaging with 12-hour intervals, potentially missing some fires. Some farmers believe that burning crop residue after sunset may help evade satellite detection due to temperature variation, but experts disagree.

Undetected farm fires lead to data discrepancies, which are crucial as government strategies are based on this data. The air quality issue has sparked political disputes, with the Aam Aadmi Party blaming vehicle emissions in neighboring states, while the BJP accuses Delhi’s Chief Minister of contributing to the problem.

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The Supreme Court has intervened, urging discussions among Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan governments to find a solution, emphasizing the urgent need to address the health implications of the deteriorating air quality.