Keeping in mind the deteriorating air quality during the festive season, many states have imposed a complete ban on firecrackers during the Diwali season. Keeping in mind environmental concerns, many states like Delhi, Punjab, Haryana and Tamil Nadu have implemented strict rules on the use of firecrackers. These rules are aimed at reducing the deterioration in air quality during this festive period. Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), known for its poor air quality every winter, has imposed a complete ban on the manufacture, storage, sale and use of firecrackers by January 1, 2025. This also includes online sales.
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However, burning of ‘green crackers’, which are less harmful, is allowed only for a limited period of time from 8 pm to 10 pm on Diwali in the city. Timings have been adjusted for Gurupurva, Christmas and New Year’s Eve. Green crackers are free from toxic chemicals like barium and lead. Meanwhile, state authorities in Bihar have imposed a complete ban on all types of firecrackers, including green firecrackers, in major cities like Patna, Gaya, Muzaffarpur and Hajipur.
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Maharashtra has imposed a complete ban on firecrackers and allows only green crackers which produce about 30% less pollution than conventional crackers. Additionally, Mumbai Police has banned the use and sale of sky lanterns from October 23 to November 24. The Karnataka government has allowed only green firecrackers during Diwali and suggested restricting the use of fireworks to specific times between 8 pm and 10 pm, although no formal ban has been issued.
