Punjab Farm Fires Ignite Concerns Amid Surge

Punjab recorded the highest single-day spike of 147 farm fires, raising the total to 890 since September 15. Despite government efforts, fires surged from October 20. Tarn Taran and Amritsar lead the numbers. Crop residue burning contributes to Delhi's pollution, with fines imposed on defiant farmers.

In Punjab, a dramatic surge of 147 farm fires in a single day has intensified concerns over air quality and environmental health in the region. The Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB) reported a total of 890 incidents since September 15, with Tarn Taran and Amritsar districts accounting for most of them.

The sharp increase from 353 incidents on October 20 underscores the challenges authorities face in curbing crop residue burning. As farmers hurry to clear fields for the Rabi crop season, this method of stubble burning exacerbates air pollution in neighboring Delhi.

Efforts to deter this practice include fines, with Rs 19.80 lakh imposed as environmental compensation. Despite these measures, 302 FIRs have been filed, and 337 red entries marked in land records to discourage future violations.

(With inputs from agencies.)