The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has reaffirmed its commitment to achieving zero stubble burning during the current paddy harvesting season in Punjab and Haryana. To monitor progress, flying squad teams will be deployed in hotspot districts to enforce statutory measures and ensure compliance. The teams will work with local authorities to mobilize crop residue management equipment, intensify evening patrolling to check farm fires, and raise awareness among local bodies about the importance of preventing open burning of municipal solid waste and biomass.
In Punjab, satellite imagery has detected 80 incidents of active farm fires between September 15 and 26, which is a decrease from the 98 incidents reported during the same period last year. Despite this, 41 First Information Reports (FIRs) have been registered against farmers for disobeying orders and engaging in stubble burning, with environmental compensation of ₹1.95 lakh imposed in 41 cases. The state government has identified 663 hotspot villages where more than 75% of the area has been burned in the last three years, and officials have been instructed to make special arrangements to contain crop residue burning in these areas.
Sangrur and Ferozepur districts, which reported the highest number of crop residue burning events last year, are under close scrutiny. The CAQM has directed both Punjab and Haryana to enforce measures with a mix of incentives and deterrents to prevent stubble burning. The commission’s efforts aim to reduce air pollution and improve air quality in the region. With the paddy harvesting season underway, the authorities are working to ensure that farmers adopt alternative methods of crop residue management, such as using machinery to collect and dispose of stubble, rather than resorting to burning. The goal of achieving zero stubble burning is ambitious, but the CAQM is committed to working with state governments and local authorities to make it a reality.