In a proactive move to combat the recurring menace of crop residue burning in Haryana, the state's Agriculture Department has taken decisive steps, bolstered by advanced satellite monitoring. With the formation of dedicated teams at village, block, and district levels, coupled with real-time surveillance via satellite technology courtesy of the Haryana Space Applications Centre (HARSAC), authorities aim to swiftly address incidents of burning crop residue.
A government official spokesperson emphasized the gravity of the issue, highlighting the immediate identification of perpetrators through satellite tracking. Those found culpable of setting fire to crop residue will face strict repercussions by the law, the spokesperson affirmed.
In adherence to directives from the National Green Tribunal, the state has invoked Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code 1973 to enforce a comprehensive ban on residue burning following the Rabi crop harvest, effective immediately and slated to continue until June 25, 2024.
Authorities have enjoined officials from the Agriculture, Revenue, and Panchayat Departments to disseminate awareness among farmers regarding the imperative of abstaining from burning crop residue. The Agriculture Department's deployment of specialized teams underlines the collective effort to prevent such incidents.
Farmers are urged to adopt alternative methods, utilizing agricultural machinery for residue management, thereby averting the deleterious effects of fires on both land and the environment while enhancing soil fertility.
The spokesperson also noted the detrimental impact of residue burning, citing its adverse effects on public health, potential threats to life and property, and the depletion of fodder for livestock. Furthermore, the ecological ramifications are dire, with the demise of beneficial soil insects leading to diminished land fertility and compromised crop yields.
The government's proactive stance shows a commitment to environmental sustainability and agricultural welfare, striving to safeguard both livelihoods and ecosystems from the perils of indiscriminate residue burning.
