With winter approaching and pollution levels expected to rise, several states, including Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, and Tamil Nadu, have imposed strict bans on firecrackers. These measures aim to reduce air pollution during the festive season, leaving many regions bracing for a quieter, cracker-less Diwali. Most states have limited the use of firecrackers to “green” alternatives and set specific time windows for their use.
Delhi
The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) has banned the manufacturing, storage, sale, and use of all types of firecrackers in Delhi until January 1, 2025. Only “green crackers,” which are free of harmful chemicals like barium and lead, are allowed. The permitted hours for bursting these crackers on Diwali (October 31, 2024) are between 8:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. For Gurpurab (November 15, 2024), firecrackers are allowed from 4:00 a.m. to 5:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Firecrackers can be used from 11:55 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.
Maharashtra and West Bengal
Maharashtra and West Bengal have also implemented a ban, allowing only certified “green crackers” in accordance with National Green Tribunal (NGT) guidelines. These crackers are designed to emit 30% less pollution. However, enforcement remains a challenge as some individuals may still smuggle traditional firecrackers from neighbouring states where the ban is not as strict.
Punjab
In Punjab, the state government has enforced the Supreme Court and NGT directives, banning the sale and use of most firecrackers. The rules permit the use of green crackers from 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. on Diwali (October 31, 2024), 4:00 a.m. to 5:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. on Gurpurab (November 15), and 11:55 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. on Christmas and New Year’s Eve.
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Haryana
Gurugram in Haryana has similarly banned traditional firecrackers, allowing only green crackers during specified time slots. These can be used from 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. on Diwali and Gurpurab, and from 11:55 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. on Christmas Eve.
Tamil Nadu
The Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) has set guidelines for managing noise and pollution during Diwali. The designated times for bursting firecrackers are 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The TNPCB is also working with government agencies to educate the public on the environmental and health impacts of firecrackers.
These states have imposed strict penalties for violating the bans, including fines and legal action, to ensure compliance and protect public health.