Govt Pursuing Zero-tolerance Policy Against Burning Of Crop Residue
Punjab Agriculture Minister Syed Ashiq Hussain Kirmani stated on Friday that the government is implementing a strict zero-tolerance policy against the burning of paddy and other crop residue. He emphasized that while providing farmers with alternatives to stubble burning, registration of FIRs (First Information Reports) and arrests are considered last resort.
During a meeting at the Civil Secretariat to discuss measures preventing crop residue burning, Kirmani revealed that the Punjab Agriculture Department is taking proactive steps to permanently address this issue. He highlighted the significant increase in machinery availability, including:
- Super seeders: From 300 three to five years ago to 10,000 currently.
- Balers: From just 4-5 to around 150.
- Harvesters: From 100 to approximately 450.
Kirmani noted that while the task remains challenging, the smog-control campaign will be conducted comprehensively this year. Farmers will receive warning notices and awareness campaigns utilizing print, electronic, and social media will raise insights about the detrimental effects of crop-residue burning. These efforts will continue until the paddy harvesting season ends.
Last year, incidents of paddy-residue burning decreased by 70%, demonstrating the government's commitment to further reduction.
Agriculture Secretary Shakil Ahmed Mian appointed focal persons at provincial and district levels to monitor and coordinate anti-crop-residue burning efforts, ensuring successful campaign implementation.