Soon after satellite images pointed towards stubble burning in the district, Collector Kaushalendra Vikram Singh banned the burning of crop residues in the district and warned of strict action against those failing to comply.
In orders issued late on Thursday evening, Singh banned the burning of crop residues and warned erring farmers of action under the provisions of the Air (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1981.
The ban will remain in force for an initial period of two months. The orders stated that the practice must be stopped, as it often causes uncontrollable fires, damaging property, natural vegetation, and wildlife, and also results in a loss of soil fertility.
Singh also underlined the damage caused to the environment and the resultant loss of human and animal life and biodiversity.
He called on farmers to desist from the practice and instructed administration officials and police station in-charges to monitor their areas and ensure the ban is strictly enforced.
They will take immediate action against those violating the order, said Singh.The orders come on the wake of a significant downturn in the quality of breathable air in and around the state capital.
