NEW DELHI: The central government on Thursday announced an amendment to the Commission for Air Quality Management in National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas Rules of 2023, focusing on the imposition, collection, and utilisation of environmental compensation for stubble burning.
Under the new rules, farmers will be required to pay an environmental compensation based on the size of their land. Those with land less than two acres will pay Rs 5,000, farmers with land between two to five acres will be fined Rs 10,000, and those with land exceeding five acres will face a penalty of Rs 30,000.
The amendment seeks to standardise the penalty structure, taking into account the varying land sizes and aims to enforce stricter measures to curb stubble burning, a major contributor to the rising pollution levels in Delhi and surrounding areas.
With the Air Quality Index (AQI) surpassing 400, this move comes as part of efforts to address the escalating pollution crisis, Haryana chief minister Nayab Singh Saini urged farmers to avoid stubble burning, stressing the health hazards and promoting government-subsidised machinery to manage stubble more sustainably.
Stay updated with the latest news on Times of India. Don't miss daily games like Crossword, Sudoku, and Mini Crossword.The TOI City Desk is an indefatigable team of journalists dedicat...
Read MoreThe TOI City Desk is an indefatigable team of journalists dedicated to bringing you the pulse of cities from across the nation, all day and all night. Our mission is to curate, report, and deliver city news that matters to readers of The Times of India. With a keen focus on urban life, governance, culture, and local issues, we provide a comprehensive view of the ever-evolving cityscapes. Our team works tirelessly to keep readers informed about the latest developments, ensuring that they are connected to the heartbeat of cities across India, right when it happens. The TOI City Desk is a trusted source for staying in touch with the local stories that shape your world.
Read Less