Helpline launched to curb farm fire cases
In a bid to curb stubble burning in the district, Deputy Commissioner Himanshu Aggarwal today launched a district-level helpline, enabling farmers and the public to report farm fires and seek assistance with crop residue management.
During a review meeting with the departments concerned, the DC announced that people could report stubble burning incidents at 0181-2225005 and farmers can seek technical help on crop residue management at the same number. This helpline would be operational from 10 am to 6 pm, seven days a week.
Aggarwal emphasised a zero-tolerance policy against stubble burning and warned that any government employee found engaging in such practices would face immediate suspension and departmental action. He added that responsibility would be fixed in each case of farm fire, with strict action being taken against officials failing in their duty to curb this menace.
The DC further said 6,342 crop residue management machines had been procured and village-level mapping was being done to ensure their optimal utilization. Additionally, over 200 bailers had been arranged to assist farmers.
Aggarwal urged Sub-Divisional Level Committees to take proactive steps in spreading awareness about the harmful effects of stubble burning.