Punjab Grapples with Surge in Stubble Burning Incidents

Punjab recorded its highest single-day increase in stubble-burning incidents this season, with 283 new cases. This raises the total farm fires to 1,216 since September 15. Districts like Tarn Taran and Amritsar are the most affected, despite government efforts to curb this practice due to pollution concerns.

Punjab witnessed a sharp rise in stubble-burning incidents, logging a single-day high of 283 cases on Wednesday, according to official data. This new surge brings the total number of farm fires to 1,216 since mid-September.

Districts such as Tarn Taran and Amritsar accounted for the majority of cases. Despite government appeals to avoid burning crop residue due to its contribution to air pollution in Delhi-NCR, farmers continue this practice for quick field clearance ahead of the Rabi crop season.

Authorities have filed 476 anti-pollution cases and collected Rs 24.25 lakh in fines. Additionally, 376 FIRs were related to disobedience of public orders, while 432 red entries were marked in land records, impacting farmers' ability to acquire loans or sell land.

(With inputs from agencies.)