Green Firecrackers Mandated for Festive Season in State, Limited Bursting Hours
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- Supreme Court and National Green Tribunal Issue Strict Guidelines
TFP Bureau, Raipur; Oct 26,2023: In a move aimed at curbing environmental pollution and ensuring a safer festive season, the state government has implemented significant restrictions on the sale and use of firecrackers. Under the directives of the Supreme Court and the National Green Tribunal, green firecrackers will be the sole option available for celebrations during Diwali, Chhath Puja, Guru Parv, New Year, and Christmas.
To further mitigate air pollution concerns, a limited two-hour window has been designated for firecracker use during these festive occasions. For Diwali, festivities are permitted between 8 pm and 10 pm, while Chhath Puja allows for firecrackers from 6 am to 8 am. Guru Parv celebrations can include fireworks from 8 pm to 10 pm, and the New Year and Christmas period accommodates fireworks from 11:55 pm to 12:30 am.
Additionally, in response to winter air quality concerns, urban areas including Raipur, Bilaspur, Bhilai-Durg, Raigarh, and Korba will observe a firecracker ban from December 1 to January 31. The state government, invoking its authority under Section 19 of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act 1981, has taken this proactive measure.
The Supreme Court, in a ruling dated November 23, 2018, issued comprehensive guidelines for the use of firecrackers. These instructions include the sale of green and environmentally friendly firecrackers by licensed vendors. Noise levels of firecrackers must conform to established limits, and series firecrackers or sticks are strictly prohibited. Furthermore, licenses of firecracker manufacturers who utilize lithium, arsenic, antimony, lead, and mercury in their products will be revoked.
Notably, the sale of firecrackers through e-commerce platforms such as Flipkart and Amazon will also be prohibited. The district administration has been directed to rigorously enforce these directives to ensure a safe and environmentally conscious festive season.
