Which states have so far banned firecrackers this Diwali?

Amid, Covid-19 issues and air pollution, a number of states have banned bursting of firecrackers this festive season.

The National Green Tribunal had sent notices to 18 states and union territories to expand the scope of hearing cases on pollution by firecrackers during Diwali

While some states have announced a total ban, others have only prohibited the use of “imported” firecrackers.

Rajasthan

The state government has banned the sale and use of firecrackers this festive season to protect the health of COVID-19 patients and to curb air pollution. The government has also announced a penalty of Rs 2,000 on anyone found violating the order.

Odisha

Odisha announced a ban on the sale of bursting firecrackers, from November 10-30. The order stated that any person found violating this order shall be punished under the provision of the Disaster Management Act, 2005

Sikkim

Sikkim has banned firecrackers under the Disaster Management act, 2005 to safeguard the health of Covid-19 patients

Delhi

Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai on Tuesday urged the people of Delhi to avoid bursting firecrackers in the interests of public health and environment.

Haryana

The Haryana government on Monday declared possession and sale of imported firecrackers as illegal and punishable in the state

West Bengal

On Thursday, Calcutta High Court banned the use of firecrackers in West Bengal on Kali Puja, Diwali and Chhath Puja over COVID-19 concerns.

Maharashtra

In Maharashtra, the BrihanMumbai Municipal Corporation has announced that firecrackers will be banned from public places.

Karnataka

Karnataka is the latest in the long list of states to ban firecrackers “In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic a decision to ban fireworks during Deepavali this year has been taken. An official order from the government will be issued soon,” Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa said.