Tarn Taran bans night paddy harvest
Harvinder Kaur
Tarn Taran (Punjab), November 14, 2025: In a major move to ease market congestion and protect public safety, the Tarn Taran district administration has imposed a complete ban on night-time paddy harvesting by combine harvesters during the ongoing Kharif season.
The decision comes after repeated complaints that combines harvesting at night often cut wet paddy, which is then brought to grain markets. However, government procurement agencies refuse to buy high-moisture paddy, leaving produce piled up for days. These heaps spill onto roads, causing traffic bottlenecks and inconveniencing producers, commission agents and government staff.
To address these disruptions, District Magistrate Rahul (IAS) invoked powers under Section 163 of the Indian Civil Protection Code, 2023, ordering a complete halt on combine harvesting from 6:00 PM to 10:00 AM across Tarn Taran district.
The order also bars night movement of combines and harvesters on National Highways, State Highways and link roads, especially when fitted with front blades, which pose safety hazards.
The directive — issued in public interest and without prior hearing — will remain in force from November 14 to December 13, 2025.
Authorities say the ban is essential to ensure smoother procurement, reduce congestion in mandis, and prevent traffic snarls affecting daily life in the district.