ThePrint ThePrintAM: Punjab floods have a Delhi pollution link. How?
Oct 8, 2025
Delve into how floods in Punjab might be linked to Delhi's pollution issues this Diwali. Explore the unexpected reduction in stubble burning due to severe flooding, with reports of markedly fewer farm fires this season. Hear from farmers about the challenges they face, with crop damage affecting close to 55 villages. Despite the decrease in burning, concerns remain about air quality in Delhi due to regional factors. The conversation also highlights the pressing need for government support in recovery efforts.
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Floods Cut Stubble Availability
- Punjab's August floods drastically reduced the area available for paddy harvest, lowering stubble availability.
- Remote sensing shows far fewer farm fires this season compared with the last two years.
Farmer On Ground: No Stubble To Burn
- Farmer Gurameet Singh said many fields remain unharvested because people are still recovering from flood losses.
- He warned that without harvesting there simply isn't stubble to burn this season.
Experts Forecast Large Reduction
- Experts estimate a 50–70% reduction in stubble-burning cases in Punjab this year due to floods and other factors.
- Last season had about 12,000 cases while this year may see roughly 6,000 incidents.