BENGALURU: Ahead of Deepavali, the Karnataka government on Friday directed people to burst crackers only between 8pm and 10pm during the three-day festival of lights, from November 8 to 10.The directive follows the Supreme Court’s directions and guidelines aimed at curbing noise and air pollution during the festive period, which coincides with the winter season.After holding a review meeting with officials of the environment and ecology department and the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB), forest, environment and ecology minister Ramalinga Reddy said directions had been issued to all district administrations and enforcement agencies to comply with the Apex Court’s orders.“The two-hour window between 8 pm and 10 pm will be the only period during which bursting of crackers will be permitted,” Reddy explained.The minister has also instructed deputy commissioners and superintendents of police in all districts, along with local municipal administrations, to strictly enforce the restrictions and ensure that fireworks are not burst at any time other than the permitted hours.District authorities have also been directed to prevent the use of fireworks near hospitals, educational institutions and other prohibited areas.
Use only green crackers
The state government has also emphasised that only green crackers should be used during Deepavali celebrations.“All green crackers and their packaging will carry the prescribed green cracker mark and QR code, which will be verified by the respective district environmental officers during their vigilance drives across Karnataka. Fireworks without these markings and QR codes will not be recognised as green crackers and will be liable for seizure,” the minister cautioned traders while urging people to purchase only green crackers.To ensure compliance, all deputy commissioners have been directed to constitute district-level task forces comprising fire department officials, health officers, tahsildars, district environmental officers, police personnel, concerned citizens and representatives of non-governmental organisations.The task forces will inspect fireworks dealers’ warehouses across their respective jurisdictions. If prohibited crackers other than permitted green crackers are found in stock, the entire warehouse will be sealed and criminal cases initiated against those responsible.The state government has further directed the commercial taxes department and police to seize banned fireworks being illegally transported from other states at state borders.Vehicles used for such transportation will also be liable for confiscation through the Transport Department.As part of the campaign to promote an eco-friendly Deepavali, awareness programmes will be conducted at metro and railway stations, bus stands and shopping malls through posters, pamphlets and audio-visual campaigns.Local television and radio channels will also be roped in to spread awareness about the harmful effects of fireworks. Local bodies have been asked to ensure the scientific disposal of solid waste generated during the festivities.The state government has appealed to people to celebrate Deepavali, traditionally known as the festival of lights, by lighting more lamps and reducing the use of fireworks.The minister stressed that responsible celebrations would help minimise air and noise pollution and protect the health of children, senior citizens, birds and animals.
