Punjab administration bans stubble burning in Jalandhar, issues strict directives

The administration of Punjab announced a prohibition on the practice of burning crop residue in Jalandhar district, effective immediately. The order comes amid growing concerns over air‑quality deterioration during the post‑harvest season, with officials warning that illegal burning will attract penalties. Local agricultural officers have been instructed to monitor fields, provide guidance on alternative residue management, and coordinate with law‑enforcement agencies to enforce the ban. Farmers are being urged to adopt methods such as in‑field incorporation, mulching or using equipment like Happy Seeders, and the government has promised to facilitate access to such technologies. The administration will review compliance weekly and may impose fines or other actions against violators, aiming to curb smog and protect public health.