Delhi Government Takes Firm Action to Curb Diwali Firecrackers Amid Pollution Concerns
On 11 September, the Delhi government reinstated a ban on the production, sale, storage, and use of all firecrackers in the capital region for the upcoming Diwali season. This decision aims to combat pollution during winter, according to Environment Minister Gopal Rai.
Environment Minister Gopal Rai, speaking at a press conference in Delhi, emphasized that the Delhi Police would be instructed to rigorously enforce this ban across the city, continuing a practice that has been in place for the past three years. While acknowledging improvements in Delhi’s air quality in recent years, Gopal Rai stated that more progress was needed, leading to the decision to ban firecrackers once again this year.
Delhi government bans burning, selling of firecrackers this Diwali. @tweets_amit joins us for more on this#ITVideo #FirecrackerBan #Delhi (@nabilajamal_) pic.twitter.com/6dax64WjKS
— IndiaToday (@IndiaToday) September 11, 2023
He also called on authorities in the National Capital Region (NCR) states to refrain from issuing firecracker licenses. Rai stressed the importance of celebrating religious beliefs while prioritizing people’s safety, advocating for collective efforts to save lives during Diwali celebrations with lights and lamps.
Cracking Down on Firecrackers
Environment Minister Gopal Rai mentioned that pollution hotspots were being monitored, and a winter action plan was being devised as Diwali approached. Last year, the government had warned that individuals caught bursting firecrackers during Diwali could face up to six months in jail and a fine of Rs 200. Additionally, the production, storage, and sale of firecrackers in Delhi could result in a fine of up to Rs 5,000 and a three-year jail term under Section 9B of the Explosives Act.
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