Kolkata Police Enforces Strict Firecracker Rules: Only Green Crackers Allowed for Limited Hours

Image Source: The Hindu

Kolkata Police has issued a directive restricting firecracker use during Diwali, Kali Puja, and Chhath Puja. Only authorised green crackers will be permitted, and strictly within designated time slots. The move aims to curb air and noise pollution, with enforcement measures including seizures and arrests already underway.

Kolkata Cracks Down on Festive Fireworks: Green Crackers Only, Two-Hour Window Imposed

In a bid to reduce pollution and uphold court directives, Kolkata Police has announced strict regulations on firecracker usage during the upcoming Diwali, Kali Puja, and Chhath Puja celebrations. The order, signed by Police Commissioner Manoj Verma, limits the use of firecrackers to authorised green variants and enforces a narrow time window for their discharge.

Key Highlights of the Firecracker Restrictions:

Time-Specific Usage

Firecrackers can only be burst between 8 PM and 10 PM on October 20, the night of Diwali and Kali Puja.

For Chhath Puja, the permitted window is 6 AM to 8 AM on October 28, aligning with early morning rituals.

Green Crackers Mandate

Only authorised green firecrackers—those certified to emit lower levels of pollutants—are allowed.

Vendors must ensure compliance with licensing and environmental standards.

Legal Enforcement and Seizures

Police have already seized nearly 3,000 kg of illegal fireworks and made seven arrests as part of pre-festive enforcement.

Violators may face legal action under environmental and public safety laws.

Court Oversight

The Calcutta High Court has directed the state government to submit a compliance report on pollution control measures.

The court’s earlier rulings emphasized the need to curb air and sound pollution during festive seasons.

Public Awareness and Vendor Monitoring

Authorities are conducting awareness campaigns to educate citizens about the new rules.

Crackdown on unauthorised vendors and non-compliant products is ongoing across city markets.

Environmental Impact

The initiative is part of a broader effort to improve Kolkata’s air quality, which typically deteriorates during festive periods due to excessive firecracker use.

Kolkata’s move reflects a growing trend among Indian cities to balance tradition with environmental responsibility, ensuring safer and cleaner celebrations for all.

Sources: The Hindu, Telegraph India, Economic Times

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