Collector bans stubble burning in Bhopal, warns of strict action

Soon after satellite images pointed to stubble burning in the area, Collector Kaushalendra Vikram Singh banned crop residue burning in the area and warned of strict action against those who did not comply.

In the orders issued late on Thursday evening, Singh banned burning of crop residue and warned erring farmers to take action under the provisions of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981.

The ban will initially remain in effect for two months. The orders stated that the practice should be stopped as it frequently causes uncontrollable fires, damages properties, natural vegetation and wildlife, and also causes loss of soil fertility.

Singh also highlighted the damage to the environment and the resulting loss of human, animal life and biodiversity.

He appealed to farmers to desist from this practice and instructed administrative officials and the police station in charge to monitor their areas and ensure strict implementation of the ban.

Singh said they would take immediate action against those violating the order. The orders come in the wake of a drastic decline in breathable air quality in and around the state capital.