Challenges in Effectively Tackling Crop Residue Burning and Its Environmental Impact

Disaster Management Disaster Management in India

Posted by admin on 2025-01-26 17:56:00 |

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Crop residue burning remains a persistent issue in Punjab, despite ongoing awareness campaigns and legal restrictions aimed at curbing the practice. Every year, as the harvest season concludes, farmers resort to burning leftover crop residues to quickly clear fields for the next crop. This approach, though expedient, contributes significantly to air pollution, leading to smog, respiratory diseases, and severe environmental degradation.

One of the primary reasons for the continued practice of crop residue burning is the tight harvesting schedules that farmers face. With a narrow window between harvesting one crop and preparing the land for the next, many farmers find it more convenient and cost-effective to burn the residue rather than engage in more time-consuming alternatives like composting or using machinery for residue management. This is compounded by financial constraints, as many farmers struggle to afford the technology or resources required to manage crop residue sustainably.

While the government has made efforts to introduce alternatives, such as subsidized machinery for residue management and promoting composting, these solutions have encountered economic and logistical challenges. The high initial cost of equipment, coupled with the lack of infrastructure for large-scale residue processing, has deterred many farmers from adopting these methods. Additionally, the lack of awareness and training on alternative practices further hampers the effectiveness of these solutions.

Addressing crop residue burning in Punjab requires a more comprehensive approach that goes beyond legal measures. It calls for providing affordable, accessible alternatives to farmers, improving infrastructure, and enhancing awareness about the long-term environmental and health impacts of residue burning. Only through a collaborative, multi-faceted approach can the issue be effectively tackled for a healthier, cleaner Punjab.

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