Diwali 2024: As India prepares for Diwali celebrations, several states have enacted stringent measures to address mounting environmental concerns, particularly focusing on air quality during the festive season.
Diwali 2024: Delhi bans firecrackers to combat pollution
Delhi, notorious for its winter pollution, leads with the most comprehensive restrictions. The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) has implemented a complete ban on traditional firecracker manufacturing, storage, sale, and use until January 1, 2025.
The capital city permits only ‘green crackers’ – environmentally friendly alternatives free from toxic chemicals like barium and lead – during specified hours from 8 PM to 10 PM on Diwali, with similar time restrictions for Gurpurab, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve celebrations.
Ban on crackers in Bihar
Bihar has taken an even stricter stance, imposing a complete prohibition on all fireworks, including green crackers, in major urban centres such as Patna, Gaya, Muzaffarpur, and Hajipur.
Maharashtra to restrict sales of crackers
Maharashtra’s approach combines restriction with regulation, permitting only green crackers that produce approximately 30% less pollution than conventional ones. Additionally, Mumbai Police has banned sky lanterns from October 23 to November 24.
Green Diwali for Karnataka
Karnataka has adopted a more moderate position, allowing green crackers without formal restrictions but recommending their use between 8 PM and 10 PM during festivities.
These varied approaches reflect a growing nationwide awareness of environmental impact during Diwali, as states balance traditional celebrations with public health concerns. The regulations mark a significant shift in how India’s most celebrated festival adapts to modern environmental challenges.
