73% of total farm fires reported in November alone
The shorter window period between harvesting paddy and sowing of wheat saw nearly 73% of the total farm fires occurring in November.
Between October 31 and November 29, the number of stubble-burning incidents surged from 2,950 to 10,889, with 7,937 fires reported in November alone.
Penal action and environmental compensation also saw a sharp increase. The authorities concerned took significant punitive measures during November, with 70 per cent increase in penal actions compared to the last year.
Of the 5,718 FIRs registered this season, 3,479 were registered within the last 27 days (61 per cent rise). The number of “red entries” against erring farmers surged by 69 per cent, as the authorities targeted 5,413 individuals for violations.
Environmental compensation fine also saw a substantial increase. By November 1, fine had been imposed on 1,717 farmers. By November 27, the number of such cases rose to 5,479, involving the imposition of Rs 2.14 crore total fine, out of which Rs 1.26 crore had been recovered.
On November 29 alone, 32 farm fires were reported, with the highest incidents recorded in Ludhiana (six), followed by Fazilka (five) and Muktsar (four).
In a report to the NGT, the Punjab Agriculture Department has emphasised on 70% reduction in stubble-burning incidents. According to the report, filed on November 26, the number of farm fires decreased from 36,551 on November 25, 2023, to 10,479 on the same date in 2024.
