Punjab's Battle Against Farm Fires: A Smoldering Issue

Punjab witnessed 345 farm fires on Sunday, with a total surpassing 6,600 since mid-September. Sangrur was the most affected district. Stubble burning after paddy harvesting is a significant contributor to Delhi's air pollution. Despite a 26% decrease, Punjab reported 36,663 farm fires in 2023.

In a worrying trend, Punjab recorded 345 farm fire incidents on Sunday, raising the total number to over 6,600 since mid-September, according to data from the Punjab Remote Sensing Centre. Sangrur district tops the list with 116 cases, while Mansa and Ferozepur follow.

The practice of stubble burning, particularly prevalent in Punjab and Haryana following the paddy harvesting season, has been identified as a major contributor to deteriorating air quality in Delhi. Farmers often resort to burning crop residue to quickly prepare their fields for the Rabi season.

Despite a noticeable 26% drop in farm fire incidents compared to last year, with Punjab reporting 36,663 fires in 2023, the practice remains a significant environmental concern. The state had significantly higher numbers in previous years, highlighting the ongoing struggle to curb this agricultural practice.

(With inputs from agencies.)