Nagpur guardian minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule on Sunday called for stronger legal and policy intervention to address stubble burning, proposing a dedicated law to prohibit the practice after visiting the fire-ravaged Dhamangaon village.
Stubble Burning Must Be Legally Prohibited
"Stubble burning must be legally prohibited," Bawankule asserted. He noted that several northern states, including Punjab and Haryana, have already imposed bans on stubble burning due to its significant contribution to severe air pollution in the National Capital Region, especially during winter months.
Gaps in Existing Framework
Bawankule highlighted gaps in the current policy framework. While the Centre's disaster management norms provide compensation for fire-related losses, similar provisions are absent in state policy. This disparity leaves affected families without adequate support under state regulations.
Immediate Assistance for Affected Families
Referring to efforts led by Minister of State Ashish Jaiswal, Bawankule announced that affected families will receive immediate assistance of ₹23,000 from the state government. Additionally, a month's supply of food grains and free sand for rebuilding homes will be provided.
Further aid includes ₹20 lakh from the Koradi Mahalakshmi Jagdamba Sansthan, distributed as follows: ₹1 lakh for fully damaged houses, ₹75,000 for 75% damage, ₹50,000 for 50% loss, and ₹25,000 for partially affected households.
Bawankule added that ₹2.5 lakh will be provided to each affected family from mining funds for house construction. A proposal for additional assistance under the Chief Minister's Relief Fund will be submitted on Monday and placed before the Cabinet the following day. The minister said he will review the situation during a follow-up visit in 15 days.
Fire Response and Infrastructure
The revenue minister stated that two fire tenders have been stationed at the taluka level and in each Nagar Panchayat. However, he stressed that deployment alone is insufficient without trained personnel and supporting infrastructure. He noted that a timely response by fire brigades from nearby municipal councils helped contain the blaze.
Mobilizing Additional Resources
Efforts are underway to mobilize Corporate Social Responsibility funds from MIDC companies to supplement government aid. Meanwhile, fodder is being arranged for livestock, and water tankers will be deployed for the next two months to prevent health risks in the village.
