What's the story

Punjab has witnessed a major decline in stubble burning incidents this year, with only 415 cases reported between September 15 and October 21. This is a sharp decrease from the same period last year, when 1,510 cases were recorded. According to data from the Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB), the total number of farm fires recorded in 2023 for the same period was 1,764.

Contributing factors

Delayed paddy harvest due to heavy rains

The drop in stubble burning incidents is largely attributed to the delayed paddy harvest due to heavy rains till early October. Flood damage also hampered crop harvesting in some areas. Officials believe that stricter field monitoring and awareness campaigns about the harmful effects of stubble burning have played a significant role in t

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