DCs, SSPs of Sangrur, Ferozepur dists served notices over spike in farm fires

Following a spike in farm fires, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has issued notices to the deputy commissioners and senior superintendents of police in Sangrur and Ferozepur districts. It has asked the four officers to send “explanation” on the issue to the commission by 5 pm on November 14.

418 fresh cases, total tally 7,029

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The state witnessed a surge in farm fires and pollution levels on Monday. With 418 new cases of farm fire, the total tally reached 7,029. The pollution level in key cities continues to remain poor with haze and smog continuing to envelop the region. Out of 418 farm fires, 103 were reported in Sangrur, followed by Ferozepur (72), Muktsar (46), Mansa (37) and Mansa (29). Amritsar recorded AQI of 204, followed by Mandi Gobindgarh (241), Jalandhar (217), Ludhiana (203) and Bathinda (203).

Those served notices include Sangrur DC Sandeep Rishi, Ferozepur DC Deepshikha Sharma, Sangrur SSP Sartaj Singh Chahal and Ferozepur SSP Saumya Mishra.

In its orders dated November 9, the CAQM has stated that in case of failure or no reply “it shall be presumed that you have nothing to state and action shall be initiated as per the provisions of the Act”.

The order states that the commission held a meeting on October 30 with state officials in view of a spurt in farm fires across various districts.

“It was reiterated that the peak harvesting period in Punjab starts in the first week of November, which will coincide with unfavourable atmospheric conditions… all efforts must be made to control paddy stubble burning incidents and it was categorically underscored that the respective DCs and SSPs of districts would be held jointly responsible for any slackness in the implementation of district action plans and enforcement of commission’s directions,” states the notice.

“The commission hereby directs you to explain why action should not be initiated as stipulated under Section 14 of the Act, for non-compliance, contravention of the order(s), direction(s) issued by the commission,” it reads further.

Out of total 418 farm fires reported across Punjab on Monday, Sangrur topped with 103 cases, followed by Ferozepur with 72 cases.