The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has sought detailed reports from districts in Haryana that have recorded more than 100 incidents of wheat stubble burning this season, amid a sharp spike in farm fire cases.
Expressing concern over the trend, the Commission noted that 2,683 active fire locations (AFLs) have been detected so far during the current rabi season, compared to 592 during the same period in 2025 — a nearly four-fold increase. During an online meeting with district officials, CAQM asked authorities from high-incidence districts to explain the sudden surge and submit detailed assessments.
Jind reported the highest number of cases at 441, followed by Rohtak (393), Jhajjar (288), Sonepat (225), Kaithal (202), Sirsa (178), Karnal (172), Hisar-Hansi (171), Fatehabad (157) and Panipat (133), all crossing the 100-mark.
Officials pointed out that while 2021 had recorded the highest number of incidents in recent years at 3,626, cases had steadily declined until this year, which has seen an unexpected rise despite monitoring measures by the state government.
The Commission, during a video conference with officials from Haryana, Punjab and Uttar Pradesh, expressed serious concern and directed authorities to submit reports on the reasons behind the increase and steps taken for stubble management.
Several districts reported relatively fewer cases, including Bhiwani (74), Ambala (54), Kurukshetra (50) and Palwal (39), while Mahendragarh reported no incidents. Rewari and Yamunanagar recorded minimal cases at 6 and 5, respectively.
Dr Rajbir Singh, Deputy Director, Agriculture Department, Hisar, said, “The Commission had sought reports especially from districts with more than 100 cases. Hisar district had only 53 cases, while Hansi reported 118. Officials have been directed to prepare a report on stubble management and ensure timely planning.”
Cases reported (April 1 to May 6)
Jind 441
Rohtak 393
Jhajjar 288
Sonepat 225
Kaithal 202
Sirsa 178
Hisar Hansi 171
Karna 172
Fatehabad 157
Panipat 133
