Delhi Chokes on Toxic Smog, But Punjab's Farm Fires Continue to Rage Unchecked

This special report focuses on the escalating crisis of farm fires in Punjab and its severe impact on the air quality in Delhi-NCR, which remains in the 'very poor' category. The core of the issue is whether the Punjab government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, has been effective in controlling the stubble burning, with questions arising as my colleague asks, 'if the Maan government has failed to douse the stubble fire'. Despite government actions, including imposing penalties worth lakhs and registering hundreds of FIRs against farmers, farm fire incidents continue to surge, particularly in hotspots like Tarantaran and Amritsar. The report examines the reasons behind the persistent stubble burning, the adequacy of the government's response, and the grim environmental consequences for the entire region as a thick layer of smog engulfs the national capital.