Appeal for eco-friendly Deepavali: Bursting crackers permitted only between 8 p.m. and 10 p.m.

Deputy Commissioner S.J. Somashekar

Appealing for an eco-friendly Deepavali, the district administrations of Kodagu and Chamarajanagar have made it clear that firecrackers can be burst only between 8 p.m. and 10 p.m.

While Deputy Commissioner of Kodagu S.J. Somashekar cited the National Green Tribunal’s order that made it clear that only green crackers recommended by the CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (CSIR-NEERI) should be used, the Deputy Commissioner of Chamarajanagar referred to the Supreme Court directions and said bursting of crackers during the remaining hours — other than the permitted hours between 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. — was completely prohibited.

Mr. Somashekar also said that the stocking, sale and use of firecrackers that generate noise exceeding 125 decibels have been strictly prohibited.

In a statement here, Mr. Somashekar said that several chemicals are used in the manufacture of firecrackers, many of which possess explosive properties. When firecrackers are burst, the chemicals released into the atmosphere contribute to air pollution, he said.

“Firecrackers used during festivals cause noise and air pollution, harm the environment, adversely affect human health, and disturb birds and animals. Therefore, Deepavali should be celebrated in a simple, devotional and pollution-free manner, without causing harm to the environment,” he said.

Those engaged in the sale of firecrackers and owners of firecracker storage godowns must obtain the necessary permissions from all the departments concerned.

In accordance with the directions of the Supreme Court and the National Green Tribunal, New Delhi, only green crackers (which cause less pollution) bearing the green cracker logo and QR code on their packaging should be sold, separate statements issued by the Kodagu and Chamarajanagar district administrations pointed out.

The public should use only green crackers during Deepavali celebrations and ensure that their use does not cause inconvenience to animals, birds, children and senior citizens.

The use of any noise-generating firecrackers and explosives was prohibited at all times in and around areas declared as silence zones, including hospitals, schools, places of worship and old-age homes, said Mr. Somashekar.