Farm fires resurface in Punjab

Stubble burning incidents have begun surfacing in the state, even as floodwaters are yet to fully recede in some areas. Five farm fires have been reported so far, three in Amritsar and two in Patiala.

The Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB) has identified 10 districts, including Sangrur, Tarn Taran, Muktsar, Bathinda, Ferozepur and Amritsar, for close monitoring based on their 2024 farm fire record. Officials said they would also focus on villages with frequent cases.

A PPCB meeting was held in Patiala on Wednesday to plan curbs on stubble burning during the season.

PPCB data shows a 70 per cent drop in farm fires in 2024, with 10,909 cases against 36,663 in 2023 and 49,922 in 2022.

In Patiala, Deputy Commissioner Dr Preeti Yadav met farm union representatives, urging their cooperation in stubble management.