📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Bhullargraphic
Health
Punjab's Kharif Field Fires Decline Yet AQI Reaches 102, Sparking Health Worries
✍️ Amar Ujala · Punjab
🗓 07 Oct 2026, 08:45 AM
👁 14
Field fires have fallen during Punjab's Kharif season, but the air quality index climbed to 102, causing discomfort for asthma and heart patients.
Punjab's agricultural landscape has seen a noticeable drop in field fire incidents this Kharif season, according to local monitoring agencies. The reduction is attributed to better moisture levels and increased farmer awareness about fire hazards.
Despite the decline in visible fires, the state's air quality index (AQI) rose to 102 on recent measurements, placing the region in the "moderately polluted" category. Health officials warn that such levels can aggravate respiratory and cardiovascular conditions.
Medical practitioners in major towns reported a surge in complaints from asthma sufferers and patients with heart ailments, who experience heightened symptoms when exposed to the lingering haze. Authorities have advised vulnerable groups to limit outdoor activities and use masks when necessary.
The Punjab government has pledged to continue monitoring both agricultural practices and ambient air quality, emphasizing coordinated action between the agriculture and health departments to protect public health during the cropping season.
Despite the decline in visible fires, the state's air quality index (AQI) rose to 102 on recent measurements, placing the region in the "moderately polluted" category. Health officials warn that such levels can aggravate respiratory and cardiovascular conditions.
Medical practitioners in major towns reported a surge in complaints from asthma sufferers and patients with heart ailments, who experience heightened symptoms when exposed to the lingering haze. Authorities have advised vulnerable groups to limit outdoor activities and use masks when necessary.
The Punjab government has pledged to continue monitoring both agricultural practices and ambient air quality, emphasizing coordinated action between the agriculture and health departments to protect public health during the cropping season.