West Bengal Sets Time Limits on Firecracker Use During Kali Puja, Diwali and Chhath

The West Bengal government has introduced strict guidelines for the use of firecrackers during Kali Puja, Diwali and Chhath Puja to control air and noise pollution across the state.

Announcing the restrictions at Nabanna, State Home Secretary Sanghamitra Ghosh said that only certified green firecrackers would be allowed during the designated hours. On Diwali, firecrackers can be burst between 8 PM and 10 PM, while the permitted time for Chhath Puja is from 6 AM to 8 AM.

The government has also directed people to adhere to the noise limits set by the Supreme Court and the Calcutta High Court. Firecrackers will not be permitted within 100 metres of hospitals, nursing homes, old-age homes and other designated silence zones.

Authorities have further instructed that firecracker markets must be located away from residential neighbourhoods and comply with all prescribed fire safety standards.

Warning of strict enforcement, Ghosh said that legal action would be taken against those violating the rules. The authorities will also confiscate firecrackers that are sold or used without the required authorisation.