look news india
Chandigarh: The Punjab government has issued comprehensive instructions regarding the sale and use of firecrackers in the state during the upcoming festive season on the occasion of Diwali, Gurpurab, Christmas and New Year. This year, the Punjab government has allowed the sale of green crackers during special hours for the festivals of Diwali (Diwali 2024), Gurupurab (Gurupurab 2024), Christmas and New Year's Eve. The decision has been taken in view of the potential adverse effects of firecrackers on the respiratory health of the vulnerable and elderly.
The state government has set a limited time limit for the use of firecrackers during festivals. Fireworks are allowed from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm on Diwali (31 October 2024). Fireworks are allowed from 4:00 am to 5:00 am and from 9:00 pm to 10:00 pm on Guruparva (November 15, 2024). Similarly, on Christmas Eve (December 25-26, 2024) and New Year's Eve (December 31, 2024 – January 1, 2025), fireworks will be permitted from 11:55 am to 12:30 pm.
The state government has banned the sale and use of firecrackers in Punjab using the powers granted by the Central Government under Section 5 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
Manufacture, stock, distribution, sale and use of mixed firecrackers (chain crackers or series) is prohibited. However, green crackers that do not contain barium salt or compounds of antimony, lithium, mercury, arsenic, lead or strontium chromate will be permitted for sale and use in the state. Only license holders will be allowed to sell firecrackers.
Ban on online sale of firecrackers
E-commerce websites including Flipkart and Amazon will be banned from accepting online orders and making online sales within Punjab. Punjab Pollution Control Board will carry out monitoring in selected cities of the state as per the guidelines of the Central Pollution Control Board.
It is noteworthy that Deputy Commissioners have been instructed to run a comprehensive public awareness campaign to make them aware of the harmful effects of firecrackers. Law enforcement agencies have also been asked to ensure sale and use of approved green crackers only at specified times and at approved locations.