In the heart of Madhya Pradesh, Bhopal's farmers face a new reality—no more stubble burning allowed. This stringent directive, issued by Additional District Magistrate Siddharth Jain on Wednesday, imposes a full prohibition on stubble fires for the next three months. Jain has directed all Sub-Divisional Magistrates to enforce this policy diligently, with the mandate effective until May 5, 2025.
What Does the Stubble Burning Ban Entail?
As Bhopal prepares for the wheat harvest, many farmers traditionally burn leftover stalks to clear fields quickly for the next crop, causing frequent fire incidents with potential danger to life and property. This indiscriminate burning not only endangers the local fauna and flora but also strips the soil of beneficial microorganisms, diminishing its fertility and affecting crop yields. Violations of this directive can result in FIRs being lodged at police stations.Instead, letting plant remnants naturally decompose enriches the soil, and burning them is akin to wasting energy. Furthermore, these fires release harmful gases that adversely impact the environment.
Source: aajtak
Source: aajtak
It’s important to note that Bhopal has witnessed extensive stubble burning. This practice often results in fires that spread to residential zones. Previous bans have been implemented in the region too. Just three months ago, Collector Kaushalendra Vikram Singh enforced a similar ban under National Green Tribunal (NGT) guidelines, which remains in effect.
