In the aftermath of the devastating fire that swept through Dhamangaon (Vidyamandir) village in Bhiwapur tehsil on May 2, the district administration has enforced a complete ban on the open burning of agricultural waste under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023.
Collector Kumar Ashirwad issued the prohibitory order on Tuesday after preliminary findings revealed that the massive blaze, which destroyed over 50 houses, was triggered by stubble burning in nearby agricultural fields. While no human casualties were reported, the fire caused extensive damage to homes and livestock.
Under the order, farmers have been prohibited from openly burning crop residue, including fodder stalks, chaff, and other agricultural waste. The administration has warned that violators will face legal action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023. Departments concerned have also been instructed to launch awareness campaigns and help farmers adopt alternative methods for crop waste disposal.
Officials highlighted that such fires frequently spread uncontrollably, causing severe damage to villages, forest areas, and property, while also endangering human lives. The practice further contributes to air pollution, soil degradation, and financial losses.
The decision comes amid growing demands for stricter measures following the Bhiwapur incident.
During his visit to Bhiwapur, Guardian Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule emphasised the need for a dedicated law to curb stubble burning. He noted that there have been “thousands of such cases across Maharashtra”, where fires originating in fields later spread to nearby settlements.
Bawankule also urged the state to align its policies with central disaster management norms to facilitate compensation for fire-related losses, while directing strict action against those responsible for the Bhiwapur blaze.
Meanwhile, a 35-year-old farmer, Kailash Dhakulkar, has been arrested for allegedly causing the Dhamangaon fire after setting stubble and agricultural residue ablaze on his farmland.
According to Bhiwapur police, the farmer left for the weekly market without ensuring that the fire had been completely extinguished.
With the new restrictions now in force, the administration hopes to prevent similar incidents in the future and tighten enforcement measures, even as relief and rehabilitation work continues in the fire-hit village.
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