22 farmers arrested in India for causing air pollution

According to a government official, 22 farmers in northern India have been arrested for burning stubbles, thereby, causing some of the worst air pollution in the country.

Spokesman Awanish Awasthi says those arrested in Uttar Pradesh state’s Pilibhit district on Wednesday face charges of disobeying a ban on stubble burning and making the atmosphere noxious.

India’s Supreme Court last week ordered a fine of up to 100,000 rupees ($1,420) for those polluting air.

Air pollution in northern India peaks in the winter due to smoke from agricultural fires. The smoke mixes with vehicle emissions and construction dust.

The air quality index in New Delhi exceeded 500, about 10 times the recommended maximum, early this month, but strong winds bought the level down to 250 this week.