New Delhi, Nov 11: Diwali, traditionally associated with vibrant celebrations and the resonant sounds of firecrackers, has seen a shift in recent years due to concerns about rising air pollution. This year, the Supreme Court has reiterated a ban on certain types of firecrackers, specifically those containing barium and other prohibited chemicals. While acknowledging the ban, various state governments have outlined specific rules and relaxations for Diwali celebrations.
State-wise Rules for Diwali Firecrackers:
1. Punjab:
- The Bhagwant Maan government permits the sale and bursting of green firecrackers during the festive season, with specific time windows.
- Green firecrackers are allowed on Diwali from 8 pm to 10 pm, on Guruparv from 4 am to 5 am and 9 pm to 10 pm.
- Restrictions on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, with firecrackers allowed from 11:55 pm to 12:30 am.
- Ban on chorsa garland firecrackers and online sale of all crackers.
2. Uttar Pradesh:
- Noida and Ghaziabad police have banned the sale of firecrackers, permitting green crackers only if the air quality index is satisfactory.
3. Delhi:
- The Delhi government has banned the manufacture, storage, sale, and bursting of all firecrackers, including green ones, until January 1, 2024.
4. Jammu and Kashmir:
- An immediate ban on the sale and use of firecrackers within five kilometers of the International Border and Line of Control.
Also Read: Tripura Encounters Rainfall Deficit in 2023 Following South-West Monsoon Withdrawal
5. Telangana:
- Hyderabad police allow bursting of firecrackers for two hours on Diwali, with noise levels within permissible limits.
- Restrictions are in force from 6 am on November 12 to 6 am on November 15.
6. Maharashtra:
- No ban on bursting firecrackers; the Bombay High Court allows a three-hour window from 7 pm to 10 pm on Diwali.
7. Tamil Nadu:
- The state government permits bursting green crackers on Diwali, with firecracker manufacturers in Sivakasi adhering to Supreme Court-approved formulas.
8. West Bengal:
- Sale of only green firecrackers allowed.
- Two-hour window on Diwali (8 pm to 10 pm) and Chhath Puja (6 am to 8 am).
- Thirty-five-minute window on Christmas and New Year’s Eve (11:55 pm to 12:30 am) for bursting green crackers.
As Diwali approaches, residents are urged to adhere to these guidelines to ensure a balance between festive traditions and environmental considerations.
