Punjab's Farm Fires Drop Amid Delayed Harvest and Awareness Campaigns

Between September 15 and October 21, Punjab recorded 415 farm fire incidents, a significant drop from 1,510 during the same period in the preceding year. This reduction is attributed to delayed harvests due to rain, stricter field monitoring, and increased awareness about the negative impacts of stubble burning.

In a significant development, Punjab has reported a substantial decrease in farm fire incidents, with numbers dropping from 1,510 last year to just 415 between September 15 and October 21, as per data from the Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB).

The decline in incidents is largely owed to a delay in paddy harvesting due to heavy rains in early October and damage caused by floods, alongside stricter field monitoring and awareness campaigns aimed at educating farmers about the drawbacks of stubble burning.

Despite the progress, concerns remain as crop harvesting gains momentum, and the region prepares for wheat sowing. In response, authorities have imposed fines totaling Rs 9.40 lakh, with 170 FIRs filed against offenders to curb the practice further.

(With inputs from agencies.)