Complete ban on non-green firecrackers for Deepavali in Karnataka

Bengaluru: In an effort to curb air and noise pollution, and keeping in mind the health concerns of senior citizens and children, Karnataka’s Minister for Forest, Biology, and Environment, Eshwar Khandre, has appealed to the public to either abstain from using firecrackers or to use only green firecrackers.

Additionally, the Karnataka Pollution Control Board has directed a complete ban on the manufacture, storage, and sale of all types of firecrackers, except green ones.

Speaking on the matter, Minister Khandre acknowledged that fireworks have long been associated with the festival of lights, Deepavali. However, he emphasized the severe environmental damage caused by traditional firecrackers and urged responsible citizens to avoid using firecrackers that contribute to high levels of smoke in the environment.

Advocate for Green Firecrackers

The minister pointed out that every year, many children suffer eye injuries from firecrackers. He advised that avoiding firecrackers entirely is the safest option. If using them is necessary, he urged people to opt only for green firecrackers, which are less harmful to the environment.

125-Decibel Limit on Firecrackers

As per the orders of the National Green Tribunal and the Supreme Court, firecrackers emitting sound above 125 decibels and releasing excessive smoke due to harmful chemicals are prohibited. Furthermore, green firecrackers can only be used between 8 PM and 10 PM during the festival. Minister Khandre stressed that the public must adhere to these regulations.

Mandatory Undertaking for Sellers

Firecracker vendors will be required to submit an undertaking stating that they will only stock, transport, and sell green firecrackers. Violators of this rule will not be granted licenses for firecracker stalls in the following years.

KSPCB Directives

In compliance with the Supreme Court’s directives, the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) has banned the production, storage, and sale of all types of firecrackers, including distribution through online marketing platforms, except for green firecrackers.

 The minister also urged educational institutions, teachers, lecturers, environmentalists, and public representatives to raise awareness about the harmful effects of firecrackers, especially among children. He called upon the public to celebrate a green Deepavali by lighting lamps instead of firecrackers.