CAQM directs phased adoption of paddy straw-based biomass in Punjab, Haryana brick kilns
New Delhi: The Commission for Air Quality Management in National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas (CAQM) has issued statutory direction, instructing the state governments of Haryana and Punjab to mandate the use of paddy straw-based biomass pellets or briquettes in brick kilns situated in districts outside the NCR. The directive is aimed at eliminating the open burning of crop residues, a significant contributor to air pollution in the region.
According to the directive, all brick kilns located in the non-NCR areas of Punjab and Haryana must gradually increase the co-firing of paddy straw-based pellets or briquettes. The Commission has stipulated that a minimum of 20 per cent co-firing must be achieved from November 1, 2025. This requirement will rise to 30 per cent from November 1, 2026, 40 per cent from November 1, 2027, and 50 per cent from November 1, 2028.
The State Governments have been directed to issue the necessary orders to implement these provisions and ensure the use of biomass fuel in the specified kilns. The directive mandates that both state governments must report to the Commission on a monthly basis regarding the compliance and enforcement of these directions.
The Commission stated that the move is intended to promote clean and sustainable fuel alternatives in the industrial sector and support its long-term goal of completely eliminating the practice of open burning of crop residue in the region.
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