New Delhi: In response to recent criticism from the Supreme Court, the Union government plans to introduce penalties of up to Rs 15 lakh for environmental violations and a spot fine of up to Rs 15,000 for stubble burning, according to a report.
The Supreme Court recently reprimanded the government over its weakened enforcement of environmental laws, highlighting the growing pollution crisis in Delhi and surrounding areas.
Each winter, toxic smog engulfs Delhi and nearby regions, worsened by stubble burning in neighbouring states and the use of firecrackers during Diwali celebrations.
The government now seeks to revise the Environment (Protection) Act of 1986 and the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act of 1981, the report said.
The report quoted an official as saying that penalties will range from Rs 10,000 to Rs 15 lakh for general violators, and Rs 2,500-Rs 15,000 for each instance of stubble burning.
Reduction in stubble burning cases
Incidents of stubble burning have decreased this year, with cases dropping to 4,969 between September 15 and October 26 across Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh, compared to 7,136 in the same period last year, according to data from the CREAMS-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, which monitors stubble burning via satellite.
