Farmers Worry as Fire Incidents Hit Muktsar Grain Market Amid Wheat Harvest
Farmers are grappling with growing anxiety, not only over accidental field fires but also concerning the safety of their wheat crops stored at grain markets. In Muktsar, two fire incidents were reported within just three days, the latest occurring on Thursday. Quick action by firefighting teams managed to avert major losses in both cases, but the back-to-back incidents have triggered alarm among farmers who have recently begun bringing in their harvest.
Fire officer Jaswinder Singh, who participated in the rescue efforts, stated that the cause of the fires remains unclear, noting that there were no overhead electric wires near the wheat storage area. Despite the rapid response, hundreds of wheat bags sustained damage during Thursday’s blaze.
The grain market is currently overcrowded due to a spike in wheat arrivals, with large piles of sacks creating logistical challenges. The local Grain Market Mazdoor Union has accused the transport contractor of mismanagement and irregularities in vehicle deployment. In response, the civil administration launched a verification drive on Thursday, checking transport vehicles against the registration numbers submitted by the contractor. Surjit Singh, chairman of the Muktsar Market Committee, confirmed that the verification process had officially begun.
Farmers are now pressing authorities to implement stricter safety measures and streamline transportation arrangements to avoid further mishaps and protect their valuable crops.
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