Punjab Records 69 New Farm Fires, Total Nears 500 Amidst Harvesting

On October 19, 2024, Punjab reported a significant increase in farm fire incidents, with 69 new cases recorded in a single day. This surge brings the total number of farm fires this season to 484, according to data from the Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB).

The district of Tarn Taran stands out as the most affected area, with 154 incidents, followed closely by Amritsar at 126. The uptick in stubble burning is attributed to a combination of factors, including a dry spell that followed unseasonal rainfall in early October, which delayed the harvesting of paddy crops. As harvesting accelerates, officials anticipate that the number of farm fires will continue to rise.

In the last 72 hours, 176 new cases have been reported statewide. Among Wednesday’s incidents, Tarn Taran accounted for 18 fires, while Ferozepur reported 14. The trend of increasing farm fires typically peaks in mid-October as farmers prepare their fields for wheat sowing following the paddy harvest. Despite government initiatives to raise awareness and enforce penalties, many farmers cite a lack of viable alternatives and the high costs associated with proper residue management as reasons for continuing the practice of stubble burning.

Government Response and Enforcement Actions

As of now, approximately 37% of the 3.172 million hectares of paddy cultivation in Punjab have been harvested. Districts such as Amritsar and Tarn Taran have exceeded the 70% harvesting mark, while others, including Patiala, Bathinda, Barnala, Ludhiana, Sangrur, Mansa, and Ferozepur, remain below 40%. This Malwa region traditionally reports the highest number of stubble-burning incidents.

The Punjab government has initiated strict enforcement measures to deter stubble burning. The PPCB has recorded 187 “red entries” in land records of offenders, which restricts their ability to secure loans or sell their properties. Environmental compensation amounting to ₹ 11.45 lakh has been imposed across 226 cases, with ₹ 7.40 lakh already recovered. Additionally, the Punjab Police have filed 184 First Information Reports (FIRs) against farmers for violating stubble burning regulations, with 84 cases occurring in Tarn Taran alone. Offenders face charges under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for disobeying public order.

Comparative Analysis of Yearly Data

Last year, Punjab recorded 10,909 farm fire incidents, with Sangrur accounting for the highest number at 1,725. While the current figures are lower than those noted during the same period in 2023, with 484 incidents compared to 1,581, officials remain cautious. They warn that as harvesting progresses, the likelihood of increased stubble burning could exacerbate the situation.

The ongoing challenge of stubble burning in Punjab highlights the complex interplay between agricultural practices and environmental concerns. As farmers navigate the pressures of crop management and state regulations, the government continues to seek effective solutions to mitigate this pressing issue.