CAQM directs Punjab to increase monitoring of farm fires
The Commission for Air Quality Management has ordered seven districts to strengthen enforcement against paddy stubble burning following a rise in incidents.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on Sunday directed seven districts in Punjab to improve monitoring and enforcement against paddy stubble burning, according to The Tribune.
CAQM Member Secretary Tarun Pithode held a review meeting with officials from Faridkot, Firozpur, Barnala, Bathinda, Patiala, Malerkotla and Sangrur to assess paddy residue management.
The commission instructed officials to increase surveillance, especially during the evening, and to take prompt enforcement action when violations are found.
During the meeting, authorities were asked to ensure that crop residue management machinery, including balers, is used effectively by farmers.
Pithode also stressed the importance of awareness campaigns and requested that police personnel work alongside administrative officials to prevent stubble burning.
The directions follow a rise in paddy stubble-burning incidents in Punjab, which occur during the post-paddy harvest period.