At 1,152, Punjab records season’s biggest single-day jump in farm fires on Deepavali

On Deepavali, Punjab recorded its largest single-day increase in farm fires this season, with 1,152 incidents reported across the state, according to official data. This brought the total count to 4,459 as of November 8, 2026, from 3,307 on November 7, 2026. The Supreme Court recently acknowledged vehicular emissions as a major contributor to air pollution in the Delhi-NCR region, highlighting the numerous vehicles traversing roads connecting Delhi with neighboring areas.

Patiala witnessed the sharpest spike in paddy stubble-burning incidents on Deepavali, with 1,152 fires reported, pushing the state's total count to 4,459. Sangrur, Ferozepur, and Bathinda also reported significant numbers of stubble-burning incidents, with their cumulative tallies reaching 488, 592, and 406, respectively. Patiala saw an additional 92 farm fires, increasing its total to 288, while Barnala reported 91 new incidents and Ludhiana 71.

Despite government advisories, enforcement measures, and penalties, stubble burning has surged this season. Tarn Taran led the way, with 654 farm fires, accounting for the highest number of incidents this season. The annual farm fire monitoring period starts on September 15, two weeks before the paddy procurement begins on October 1.

Researchers suggest that a lasting solution requires stronger incentives for crop diversification, better residue management, and more reliable measurement of burning. As of November 8, 2026, enforcement agencies had registered 884 FIRs under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and marked 1,017 red entries in land revenue records against farmers found burning stubble, imposing fines totaling over ₹62 lakh and recovering over ₹32 lakh in environmental compensation.

The CAQM recently convened a meeting with senior bureaucrats and police officers from 12 districts to intensify monitoring and enforcement efforts against stubble burning.