New Delhi. The festival of Diwali will be celebrated with great pomp across the country on 31st October. On this occasion, decoration of houses, worship and festive preparations are in full swing. But in view of the concern about air pollution due to increasing use of firecrackers, many states have implemented new rules on firecrackers this Diwali. Many states, including Delhi, have imposed partial or complete bans on firecrackers to control pollution.
Complete ban on firecrackers in Delhi
Keeping in mind the deteriorating level of air quality in the country’s capital Delhi, the Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) has imposed a complete ban on the manufacture, storage, sale and use of firecrackers till January 1, 2025. This also includes online sales. However, only ‘Green Crackers’ are allowed, and that too for just two hours from 8 pm to 10 pm on Diwali night. This restriction will also be applicable on Gurupurva, Christmas and New Year’s Eve. The specialty of green crackers is that they contain less harmful chemicals than traditional crackers, which reduces the level of pollution.
OUTER DISTRICT URGES SAY NO TO FIRE CRACKERS!
This Diwali, skip the firecrackers!
They’re illegal, harmful and a threat to our Health and Environment.
Celebrate responsibly and report any illegal firecracker sales.@DelhiPolice#DPUpdates#DPCares pic.twitter.com/gPvwbihq5z
— DCP OUTER DELHI (@dcpouter) October 29, 2024
Complete ban in some cities of Bihar
All types of firecrackers have been completely banned in major cities like Patna, Gaya, Muzaffarpur and Hajipur in Bihar. Green crackers are also banned here, so that the increase in air pollution can be prevented.
Ban on firecrackers and sky lantern in Maharashtra
Maharashtra government has also taken strict steps on the use of firecrackers on Diwali. Only green crackers have been allowed in the state, which cause 30% less pollution than normal crackers. Along with this, Mumbai Police has also banned the use and sale of Sky Lanterns from October 23 to November 24, to reduce air and fire related risks.
Only green crackers allowed in Karnataka
The Karnataka government has allowed only green crackers during Diwali, which can be burnt only between 8 pm to 10 pm. However, no formal ban has been issued yet regarding this.
Punjab and Haryana’s tough stance
The governments of Punjab and Haryana have also imposed strict rules regarding pollution control on Diwali. Following the directions of the Supreme Court and NGT, these states have also banned the use and sale of firecrackers on other major festivals including Diwali, Guru Parv, Christmas and New Year’s Eve. Especially in Gurugram, strict rules like Delhi have been implemented. Here also green crackers have been allowed for a few hours during Diwali and Guru Parv.
Time slots fixed for firecrackers in Tamil Nadu
The Tamil Nadu government has set a special time for firecrackers on Diwali to control air pollution. On Diwali, bursting of firecrackers is allowed only from 6 am to 7 am and from 7 pm to 8 pm. Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) has also issued an advisory regarding the use of firecrackers, which has been directed to be followed compulsorily.
