Firecrackers banned in this state due to…, single-use plastic also banned ahead of Diwali

Sikkim bans manufacturing, sale and bursting of all firecrackers before Diwali. Citizens urged to avoid single-use plastics and opt for eco-friendly celebrations.

Gangtok: In a major move ahead of Diwali, the Sikkim Pollution Control Board on Saturday announced to prohibit the manufacturing, sale, and bursting of all types of firecrackers in the state. The Board requested the citizens of the state not to burst firecrackers and avoid using single-use plastics. It urged people to use eco-friendly alternatives such as light displays, diyas and other environmentally friendly celebrations.

Meanwhile, in Uttar Pradesh’s Aligarh city, the firecracker market has been set up at various places. People were also seen making purchases.

At the firecracker market in Numai Ground, firecrackers bearing the names of ‘Operation Sindoor’ and Indian cricketer Rinku Singh are in high demand.

HIGHILGHTS

• Sikkim bans manufacturing, sale and bursting of all firecrackers before Diwali.
• Citizens urged to opt for eco-friendly celebrations.
• Supreme Court allows limited use of green firecrackers in Delhi-NCR.
• Court requested a balanced approach between festive celebrations and environmental safety.

It is to be noted that, the Supreme Court on October 15, had passed an order relaxing its earlier blanket ban on firecrackers in Delhi and the National Capital Region. As per the revised orders people are allowed to burst green firecrackers but subject to strict conditions.

A bench headed by Chief Justice of India BR Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandra directed that green firecrackers are allowed to be sold and burst only from October 18 to October 20.

It is clearly mentioned in the order that bursting of green firecrackers will be prohibited between 6 am and 7 am and 8 pm and 10 pm on October 18 and October 20.

The Supreme Court clarified that the leniency granted is applicable only on a case-by-case basis and is limited to a specified timeframe. Highlighting the importance of a ‘balanced approach,’ it stated that celebrations should be permitted in moderation highlighting environmental issues.

“We have to take a balanced approach, taking into account the conflicting interests and permitting in moderation, while not compromising the environmental concerns arising,” the bench stated.