Study Finds Stubble Burning in Punjab, Haryana Had No Impact on Delhi’s AQI (2024‑2026)

A report analysing air‑quality data from 2024 to 2026 found that the seasonal practice of stubble burning in the neighboring states of Punjab and Haryana did not cause a measurable rise in Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI).\n\nThe study examined hourly AQI readings from Delhi’s network of monitoring stations and cross‑checked them with satellite‑derived fire incidents and ground‑level particulate measurements in the two states. Statistical tests showed no significant correlation between the timing of burning events and spikes in Delhi’s pollution levels.\n\nExperts cited in the report said the findings suggest that other sources, such as vehicular emissions and industrial activities, remain the dominant drivers of Delhi’s air‑quality challenges. The analysis also underscores the need for targeted mitigation strategies that address these persistent contributors rather than focusing solely on agricultural residue burning.