Despite ongoing instances of stubble burning in Punjab, the state has seen a significant drop in farm fire incidents this year compared to the last two years. Data from the Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB) shows that 188 cases of stubble burning were reported between September 15 and October 16, a substantial decrease from 1,212 cases in the same period last year and 1,388 cases in 2023, representing an approximate 80% decline over the past two years.
While the numbers have decreased, authorities anticipate challenges in maintaining this trend post-Diwali when the remaining paddy harvest is completed, necessitating the clearing of more residue. Amritsar district leads with 76 reported incidents of stubble burning.
To curb these incidents, the Punjab government is actively engaging in awareness campaigns targeted at farmers and implementing punitive actions. Notably, 115 FIRs have been filed, 59 red entries recorded in land documents, and penalties totaling Rs 4.6 lakh imposed on violators.
Former Chairman of the Punjab Pollution Control Board, Adarshpal Vig, expressed optimism about the progress made through ongoing initiatives. He emphasized the government’s support to farmers in managing stubble through on-field machinery and recognition for those refraining from burning it.
Former agriculture minister and MLA Kuldeep Dhaliwal reiterated the government’s appeal to farmers to avoid stubble burning, emphasizing the need for collective efforts to tackle this issue.
The government’s persistent encouragement and interventions seem to be yielding positive outcomes in the battle against stubble burning, as acknowledged by various stakeholders involved in the agricultural sector.