Supreme Court criticizes Centre for inaction on North India's Stubble Burning crisis

On Wednesday, the Supreme Court expressed strong criticism of the Central Government for failing to establish strict rules to address stubble burning in North India. The court described the Environment Protection Act as "toothless," meaning it is not effective in dealing with the problem.  

The Supreme Court's comments emphasize the need for better policies and enforcement to stop stubble burning. This practice worsens air pollution and harms the environment in the region. Farmers often burn leftover crop residue to clear their fields quickly, which leads to toxic smoke and health issues for nearby residents.  

The court urged the government to take immediate action to create more effective solutions. It stressed that the existing laws are not sufficient to manage the ongoing problem of stubble burning, which continues to affect air quality during certain seasons.  

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Urgent Need for Action  

Stubble burning has become a major concern in North India, especially during the harvest season. The smoke from burning fields contributes to dangerous levels of air pollution, which can cause serious health problems like respiratory issues and other illnesses. The Supreme Court's criticism highlights how important it is for the government to implement stricter regulations and support farmers in finding better ways to dispose of crop waste.  

The court has called for better collaboration between various government agencies to tackle this issue effectively. It believes that with proper policies and enforcement, it is possible to reduce stubble burning and improve air quality in North India.  

The ongoing situation requires urgent attention to protect public health and the environment. The Supreme Court's remarks serve as a reminder of the serious consequences of stubble burning and the need for immediate government action.