Smog Crisis in North India
For over a week now, North India—particularly Punjab and Chandigarh—has been
shrouded in a thick, black smog, with no sign of sunlight piercing through.
This isn’t due to harsh winter or cloudy skies; it’s the toxic effect of severe
air pollution. The air has become so hazardous that simply breathing feels like
a health risk, and we’re seeing a spike in respiratory illnesses, asthma
attacks, heart conditions, and other serious health issues. Hospitals are
overflowing, struggling to accommodate the influx of patients.
Yesterday, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Chandigarh, one of India’s
greenest cities, reached a staggering 500—a level considered
"severe." In comparison, London’s AQI was merely 20. The contrast is alarming. Are we not living
in a gas chamber of our own making?
Who is responsible for this crisis? Vehicle emissions and uncleaned roads play
a part, but the main culprit is stubble (Parali-residual of rice crop) burning
in Punjab, Haryana, and parts of Pakistan.
Despite the detrimental impact on
public health, enforcement remains lax. Why? Farmers, forming a significant
voting bloc, have been given a free pass. As the “Annadata” (providers of
food), they hold sway, even bringing highways and city roads to a standstill in
prolonged protests, as politicians and courts hesitate to take action against
them. Unfortunately, government support for
sustainable stubble disposal remains minimal; transporting and processing crop
residue for biogas or alternative uses is deemed uneconomical.
It’s time for action. Our health and future are at stake. Let's work towards
sustainable solutions, support our farmers in transitioning to eco-friendly
practices, and protect the air we all breathe.
God save our country! We are at least
50 years behind Europe when it comes to air quality.
#SmogCrisis #AirQuality #NorthIndia #AQI #SustainableFarming
#ParaliBurning #HealthCrisis #EnvironmentalResponsibility #CleanAir
#FutureIndia
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