Authorities in Henan province, a major agricultural base in central China, have beefed up measures to stop farmers burning straw as the wheat harvest season begins.

Many Chinese farmers choose to burn crops that are left behind in their fields after harvesting. [File photo]

The provincial capital Zhengzhou said counties and districts under its administration will be fined up to one million yuan ($160,000) for a single fire accident.

The city, notorious for its poor air quality, has banned open fires for burning straw, garbage or grass during summer and autumn harvest seasons.

Banners and posters have been hung near fields and roads in the province's Queshan county. Biyang county has also dispatched vehicle-mounted teams to villages, reminding farmers of the potential harm from burning straw.

Xuchang city has printed over 950,000 letters of commitment, demanding farmers sign them and promise not to burn straw or face potential economic and legal liabilities in case of a fire.　　

In Pingdingshan city, a farmer who sets fire to straw will generally be fined 200 yuan though the amount could reach 500 yuan in high-risk areas. If the burning leads to a fire, the fine will also include a maximum 15-day detainment.

Zhoukou is warning its officials to strengthen supervision or risk removal from office if they fail to stop farmers dealing with straw through burn-offs.

Many Chinese farmers choose to burn crops that are left behind in their fields after harvesting.

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