Gandhinagar: Diwali, one of the biggest festivals of Hindus, is celebrated with great fervour across the nation, with fireworks and crackers being an integral part of the festivities. However, to curb air and noise pollution, the Gujarat government has issued guidelines and restrictions on the use, sale, and import of firecrackers during the upcoming Diwali festival. In line with the directives issued by the Supreme Court of India, firecrackers will only be permitted for two hours from 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Additionally, loud firecrackers have been strictly prohibited.

Here are the full guidelines as per the Apex Court’s order:

1. 1. Only certified “green crackers” allowed — The court has permitted the production and sale of only eco-friendly green firecrackers that emit fewer pollutants. The manufacture and sale of all other types of firecrackers are strictly prohibited.

2. 2. Ban on loud and joint crackers — Firecrackers that cause high noise pollution and create heavy air and solid waste — such as joint crackers, series crackers, and “ladi” crackers — are banned.

3. 3. Sale only through licensed traders — Firecrackers can only be sold by licensed vendors, and only the types approved by the Supreme Court can be sold.

4. 4 Ban on online sale — All e-commerce platforms are strictly prohibited from selling firecrackers online.

5. 5. Prohibition on the use of barium — The use of barium in the manufacture of firecrackers is banned.

6. 6. Time restrictions for bursting crackers —

   • During Diwali and other festivals, crackers can only be burst between 8:00 PM and 10:00 PM.

   • For Christmas and New Year celebrations, the permitted time is between 11:55 PM and 12:30 AM.

As per the circular dated November 3, 2018, from the Home Department, Government of Gujarat, District Magistrates and Police Commissioners are required to issue necessary prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) to implement these directions. Copies of such orders must be emailed to the Home Department at so-aba-home@gujarat.gov.in.

Further, in accordance with the National Green Tribunal order dated November 9, 2020, only low-emission green crackers are allowed, and precautionary measures must be taken to prevent air pollution.

Authorities have been instructed to ensure full compliance with all Supreme Court and NGT orders during Diwali, Christmas, New Year, and other festivals, and to initiate prompt legal action against violators. Meanwhile, the government has once again appealed to citizens to celebrate the festivals responsibly and in an eco-friendly manner. DeshGujarat