Patiala, Oct. 11 -- After no farm fires for 10 straight days since September 30, Punjab on Friday reported six fresh incidents of stubble burning, taking the total count during the ongoing paddy harvest season to 102.

The figure so far, however, is significantly lower than last year, when 390 cases were reported during the same period. In 2023, the tally had already touched 1,037 by this time.

According to data compiled by the Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB), Amritsar continues to be the worst-affected district, with 58 cases reported so far. Tarn Taran follows with 13 cases, while other districts have reported single-digit figures.

Agriculture experts said the paddy harvest had been slow this year, as rainfall during the first w...