Worryingly, the number of stubble burning incidents in Jalandhar has been higher than in neighboring Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar and Hoshiarpur districts. Despite the administration’s strictness, farmers are undeterred. According to administrative data, so far, cases of stubble burning have been reported at 53 locations in the district, and cases have been filed against 44 farmers. The district administration has imposed a total fine of ₹2.70 lakh, of which ₹1.05 lakh has been recovered.
On Tuesday, another incident of stubble burning was reported in Bir village, Nakodar. The smoke from the stubble has further polluted the district’s air. Jalandhar’s Air Quality Index (AQI) has reached 206, which falls in the ‘poor’ category and is harmful to health.
According to the Punjab Remote Sensing System report, 64 potential fire sites were identified since October 17th, of which stubble burning was confirmed at 53 sites. The administration had already organized several meetings and campaigns to raise awareness among farmers. Despite this, the situation remained unchanged. As a result, the district administration issued show-cause notices to 83 nodal officers to investigate why the fires remained unchecked despite monitoring.
Jalandhar has become a hotspot for stubble burning, with these officials issued notices.
