Haryana Cracks Down on Stubble Burning, Issues 1,256 Challans, Imposes Rs 32 Lakh in Fines, Files 72 FIRs

The Haryana government has taken stringent measures against stubble burning, issuing 1,256 challans against the offenders, imposing more than Rs 32 lakh in fines and filing 72 FIRs. The government has also imposed restrictions on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles to curb air pollution in Gurugram and Faridabad districts.

Chandigarh: In a bid to combat the menace of stubble burning, the Haryana government has taken stringent measures, including issuing challans, imposing fines, and filing FIRs against offenders. The state's Chief Secretary, Sanjeev Kaushal, disclosed these actions during a virtual meeting convened by the Union Cabinet Secretary on Wednesday.

Strict Actions Against Farm Fires

Kaushal informed that the government has taken strict actions against individuals responsible for farm fires. A total of 1,256 challans have been issued, amounting to fines of over Rs 32.55 lakh. Additionally, 72 FIRs have been registered in connection with farm fires. The revised official statement mentioned that 44 farm fires were extinguished.

Curbing Air Pollution in Gurugram and Faridabad

To curb air pollution in Gurugram and Faridabad districts, the Haryana government has imposed restrictions on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles. Violators will face prosecution under the provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. This measure aims to reduce the number of four-wheeler light motor vehicles of Bharat Stage-III petrol and BS IV diesel category in these districts.

Significant Reduction in Stubble Burning Incidents

Kaushal highlighted a significant reduction in stubble burning incidents in Haryana. Compared to the previous year, there has been a 38% decrease in such incidents in 2023. Over the past two years, a substantial 57% reduction has been observed. The Chief Secretary emphasized the state government's efforts to minimize farm fires and promote sustainable practices.

Support for Farmers and Comprehensive Strategy

The state government has extended support to farmers by providing a subsidy of Rs 600 crore for adopting various stubble management practices. The use of Pusa Bio Decomposer on over 5 lakh acres through CSR initiatives further demonstrates the government's commitment to addressing this issue. Haryana has implemented a comprehensive strategy that includes both in-situ and ex-situ management of crop residue. Villages are categorized into red, yellow, and green zones based on active fire incidents.

Providing Crop Residue Management Machines

The Haryana government is committed to providing Crop Residue Management (CRM) machines to farmers at a subsidized rate. So far, 19,141 lakh machines have been sanctioned to the farming community. Additionally, an area of 940 lakh acres has been registered for incentives of Rs 1,000 per acre.

Deteriorating Air Quality in Delhi-NCR

While Haryana is taking stringent measures to combat stubble burning, the air quality in Delhi and its adjoining areas in the National Capital Region (NCR) has worsened. Smoke from post-harvest paddy straw burning in neighboring states, including Haryana, contributes to the air pollution in the national capital.

Haryana's Commitment to Sustainable Practices

The Haryana government, under the leadership of Chief Secretary Sanjeev Kaushal, is committed to eliminating unsustainable practices like paddy straw stubble burning. Through various initiatives, subsidies, and strict enforcement measures, the state aims to protect the environment and improve air quality for its citizens.