Farm fires’ share in city’s pollution falls to 3.5%: CPCB

The contribution of stubble burning to Delhi's PM2.5 pollution fell significantly during this year’s burning season, dropping to 3.5% from 10.6% last year, according to data shared by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in response to a Right to Information (RTI) application.

- Jasjeev Gandhiok

The figures, provided in response to an RTI application by Noida-based activist Amit Gupta, indicate a significant reduction compared to recent years, when the average contribution was 11% in 2023, 9% in 2022, and 13% in both 2021 and 2020.

CPCB cited estimates from the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology’s Decision Support System (DSS), a model that uses satellite data on active fires, converts it into emissions, and simulates impact based on wind and weather patterns.

To be sure, some experts pointed out that the figures rely on satellite data which has previously been exploited by farmers and thus may be “underestimating” the impact of stubble fires this year.