- विज्ञापन -
Fazilka (Punjab): This week, Fazilka district has experienced a significant increase in farm fires and stubble burning incidents, as indicated by satellite data. Consequently, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in the area has risen to 207, raising alarms about public health, particularly for those with respiratory issues.
In response to the worsening conditions, Jakhar Trust has adjusted the reporting time for the marathon races scheduled for Sunday. The 21 km, 10 km, and 5 km races will now start at 7:15 am, with participants required to report by 7 am, an hour later than originally planned. This change was implemented due to the dense fog and smog, which have made outdoor activities hazardous. Over 5,000 athletes are expected to participate in the three race categories.
Local authorities are tackling the issue of farm fires, having filed 16 FIRs at various police stations across the district. However, only two suspected farmers have been identified so far.
On Tuesday, FIRs were filed for farm fires in Thatheran Wala village under the Amirkhas police station and in Kandhwala Hazar Khan village in the Arniwala area. Two farm fire incidents were reported on Wednesday.
The highest number of cases occurred on Thursday, with fires reported in several villages, including Dhaban Kokrian (2), Bahadur Khera, Azam Wali (Khui Khera), Santokh Singh Wala, Moolianwali (2), Muradwala Dalsingh, and Lakhe Ke Uttar.
On Friday, three additional stubble burning cases were reported in Bahadur Khera, under Abohar Sadar police jurisdiction. Two farmers, Nachhatar Kaur and Dharam Singh, were identified as suspects in these incidents.
Farmers near the Indo-Pak border have also expressed concerns about the impact of smog from across the border on their families.
In light of the declining air quality, Civil Surgeon Dr. Chander Shekhar Kakkar has urged the public to stay updated on AQI levels. He advised individuals with asthma and other respiratory conditions to exercise caution and avoid outdoor activities in areas with high pollution, particularly in the early morning and late evening, unless absolutely necessary.
