Nagpur: Minister of state Ashish Jaiswal on Sunday cautioned farmers in Nagpur district against burning crop residue, stubble and other farm waste, warning that such fires pose a serious risk to lives and property, particularly during the current heatwave conditions.
In a public statement, the Ramek MLA said that on May 2, a massive fire at Dhamangaon in Bhiwapur taluka gutted several homes and displaced many families. On May 4, district collector issued an order under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023, imposing a ban on burning of crop residue, stubble, husk and any other farm waste in rural areas of Nagpur district.
The order warned that burning of farm waste caused fire incidents leading to loss of livestock, damage to residential structures, threat to human lives, environmental pollution, public health hazards and large-scale economic damage due to reduced soil fertility. Violation of the order invites action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023.
Jaiswal urged farmers to spread awareness about proper crop waste disposal methods and called on concerned departments to sensitise farmers before the next harvesting season.
This advisory comes as Nagpur continues to experience extreme heatwave conditions, which exacerbate the risk of uncontrolled fires. The minister emphasized that collective efforts are needed to prevent such incidents and protect both the community and the environment. Farmers are encouraged to adopt alternative methods such as using crop residue as mulch or compost, which can improve soil health and reduce pollution. The district administration has been directed to conduct awareness campaigns and provide necessary support to farmers for sustainable waste management.
