In recent years, the use of firecrackers during Diwali has come under scrutiny due to concerns over air pollution, noise pollution, and safety hazards. The government of India, along with the Supreme Court and various state authorities, has introduced regulations to ensure that celebrations remain safe and environmentally responsible. Here’s a guide to understanding the rules and regulations for Diwali fireworks in India.
1. Supreme Court Rulings on Firecrackers
The Supreme Court of India has issued several landmark rulings regarding the use of firecrackers, aiming to curb pollution while balancing the cultural significance of fireworks during Diwali. Some key points from recent rulings include:
- Ban on Polluting Crackers: The Supreme Court has banned the sale of firecrackers that do not comply with environmental safety standards. Firecrackers that release harmful chemicals and cause significant air pollution are prohibited.
- Approval of Green Crackers: The Court has approved the use of green crackers, which are designed to emit fewer pollutants and generate less smoke and noise. These crackers are eco-friendly alternatives that reduce the harmful effects of traditional firecrackers.
- Limited Time for Firecracker Usage: The Supreme Court has restricted the timing of firecracker use during Diwali and other festivals. Firecrackers can only be burst during a specified time window:
- From 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM on Diwali and other festivals.
- For Christmas and New Year’s Eve, the window is set from 11:55 PM to 12:30 AM.
2. Regulations for Green Crackers
The introduction of green crackers has been a major step in controlling pollution while allowing people to celebrate with fireworks. Here’s what you need to know about green crackers:
- Certified by CSIR-NEERI: Green crackers have been developed by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in collaboration with the National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI). These firecrackers reduce emissions of particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, and sulfur oxides by 30-35%.
- Types of Green Crackers: Common types of green crackers include sparklers, flowerpots (anar), and ground spinners (chakris). They come with a certification mark and a QR code that provides information about the emission levels and authenticity.
- Availability: Only licensed vendors are allowed to sell green crackers, and manufacturers must adhere to specific guidelines regarding emissions and chemical content.
3. State-Specific Regulations
In addition to nationwide rules, various states and cities have their own regulations regarding the sale and use of firecrackers. These rules are often stricter in areas with higher pollution levels. Here are some examples of state-specific regulations:
- Delhi-NCR:
- The sale and bursting of all types of firecrackers, including green crackers, are banned due to severe air pollution levels. This ban is usually in place during the Diwali season to prevent the already hazardous air quality from worsening.
- The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has upheld this ban to reduce pollution in the capital region.
- Maharashtra (Mumbai, Pune, etc.):
- The state has allowed the use of green crackers during Diwali, with strict timing limits (from 8 PM to 10 PM).
- In certain high-risk areas like hospitals, schools, and residential complexes, additional restrictions may apply.
- West Bengal:
- The state government has implemented strict regulations on the use of firecrackers, limiting their use to green crackers and only during the permitted time window.
- Many cities in West Bengal have also imposed noise limits, ensuring that firecrackers do not exceed permissible decibel levels.
- Tamil Nadu:
- Tamil Nadu, which has a long tradition of firecracker manufacturing, allows the use of green crackers and traditional crackers during limited hours (from 6 AM to 7 AM and 7 PM to 8 PM on Diwali).
- The state also encourages the use of green crackers to reduce environmental damage.
4. Noise Pollution Regulations
- Noise Decibel Limits: The Supreme Court and Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) have set noise limits for firecrackers to reduce noise pollution, particularly in residential areas. Firecrackers cannot exceed 125 decibels.
- Silent Zones: Firecrackers are banned in silent zones (areas within 100 meters of hospitals, schools, courts, and religious places). Violators can face penalties, including fines and imprisonment.
5. Environmental Impact and Air Quality Concerns
- Air Quality Index (AQI) Monitoring: During Diwali, the AQI levels in many cities rise to hazardous levels due to firecracker emissions. The government monitors air quality closely, and in areas where AQI crosses critical levels, local authorities may impose additional restrictions or temporary bans on the use of firecrackers.
- Post-Diwali Cleanup: Authorities encourage citizens to participate in post-Diwali cleanup activities to manage the large amounts of debris left behind by firecrackers. Proper disposal of used firecrackers helps reduce environmental damage.
6. Firework Manufacturing and Sale Regulations
- Licensed Manufacturers and Sellers: Only licensed manufacturers are allowed to produce fireworks, and they must adhere to safety standards set by the Explosives Act, 1884 and the Explosives Rules, 2008. Retailers must also be licensed to sell firecrackers.
- Ban on Online Sale: The sale of firecrackers through e-commerce websites is banned, as the government aims to control the distribution and sale of non-compliant or illegal firecrackers.
7. Health and Safety Measures
- Safety Precautions: Local authorities urge citizens to take safety precautions when using firecrackers, such as:
- Keeping fire extinguishing materials (water, sand, fire extinguishers) nearby.
- Wearing protective clothing and maintaining a safe distance while lighting firecrackers.
- Supervising children closely and ensuring they handle only safe, legal crackers like sparklers.
- Awareness Campaigns: The government and environmental organizations often run campaigns during Diwali to raise awareness about the harmful effects of firecrackers on health and the environment. These campaigns promote the use of eco-friendly alternatives, such as green crackers or digital celebrations (virtual fireworks).
8. Penalties for Violating Firecracker Regulations
Those who violate the rules and regulations around firecrackers during Diwali can face penalties, including:
- Fines: Individuals found using illegal firecrackers or using firecrackers outside the permitted hours may face fines, which vary by state.
- Imprisonment: In serious cases, violators may face imprisonment for up to 5 years under the Explosives Act, 1884.
- Confiscation: Illegal firecrackers can be confiscated by the authorities, and stores selling them may be penalized or shut down.
Conclusion
The rules and regulations surrounding Diwali fireworks in India are designed to ensure a balance between festive celebrations and environmental sustainability. By opting for green crackers, adhering to permitted timings, and following local guidelines, you can celebrate a safe, responsible, and eco-friendly Diwali. It’s essential to stay informed about your state’s specific rules and contribute to reducing the pollution and hazards associated with firecrackers.