Punjab Records 510 Incidents of Stubble Burning, Environmental Fines Imposed in 184 Cases

Patiala, October 23 (Daily Kiran) : The Punjab government is intensifying its efforts to combat stubble burning, with recent reports indicating a total of 510 incidents recorded as of October 22. The Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB) has confirmed that physical inspections have been conducted in 467 of these cases, resulting in environmental compensation fines being imposed in 184 instances.

According to the report, officials have identified 195 locations across the state where stubble burning has occurred. Additionally, records have been noted in four cases involving the roles of nodal officers or relevant staff. The total amount levied as environmental compensation stands at ₹9.30 lakh, with ₹4.93 lakh already collected.

District-wise data reveals that Amritsar leads with 136 incidents, where 127 cases were inspected and fines were imposed in 51. Tarn Taran follows closely with 247 reported incidents, of which 229 were inspected and 97 fines were issued. However, discrepancies in the reported figures from individual districts compared to the state total suggest a need for verification.

Other districts such as Gurudaspur reported 32 incidents, Ferozepur 26, Kapurthala 18, while Fazilka and Jalandhar each recorded nine. Patiala accounted for five incidents, with four inspections conducted and three fines imposed.

The report also highlights that 227 nodal and supervisory officials received warning notices. In addition, four FIRs were filed, and 166 red entries were recorded. However, there have been no departmental charges or suspensions issued against the officials involved.

Despite ongoing monitoring and enforcement efforts by the administration, the number of recorded incidents and fines collected indicates a need for sustained effectiveness in managing and preventing stubble burning.