Chandigarh: Stubble burning in Punjab is once again showing an upward trend, with 351 incidents reported on Thursday alone, taking the seasonal total to 3,284 so far. Experts warn that the rising fires are exacerbating air pollution, posing health risks for children, the elderly, and patients with respiratory conditions.
Among the cities, Mandi Gobindgarh recorded a poor Air Quality Index (AQI) of 233, while other major urban centres reported comparatively better air conditions. Sangrur continues to lead with the highest number of stubble burning cases this season at 557, followed closely by Tarn Taran with 537 incidents.
On Thursday, Moga topped the list with 46 incidents, followed by Muktsar (40), Sangrur (31), Ludhiana (29), Tarn Taran and Ferozepur (28 each), and Bathinda (27). Other districts also witnessed significant fires, including Jalandhar (54), Fazilka (69), Faridkot (75), Fatehgarh Sahib (34), SAS Nagar (27), and Hoshiarpur (15).
While the number of stubble burning cases has decreased compared to the same period last year—when 5,041 incidents were recorded—experts point out that the low fines and uncertain enforcement continue to encourage farmers to burn crop residue.
Thursday also marked the second day of Gurpurab, during which green crackers were allowed to be burst for limited hours early in the morning and late evening. However, many cities reported firecrackers being lit well past the permitted times, contributing further to pollution. AQI readings on Thursday included Jalandhar at 192, Ludhiana at 172, Amritsar 141, Bathinda 136, Khanna 124, and Patiala 124.
Environmentalists are urging stronger enforcement of anti-stubble burning measures and greater awareness among farmers to reduce the annual spike in air pollution, which severely affects public health during the winter season.
