Delhi breathes easy as farm fires decline sharply

Stubble burning incidents in neighbouring states down due to rains, strict monitoring

- Vijay C Roy

Farm fires, which are a big source of Delhi's foul air, declined significantly in four major agricultural states of Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh due to extended monsoon showers and strict monitoring, helping the national capital breathe easier.

This marks a notable shift at the start of this year’s stubble-burning season, significant because crop residue burning in these states is a major contributor to Delhi’s severe air pollution and a recurring political flashpoint.