Last Updated: November 10, 2023, 14:52 IST
This initiative aims to minimise environmental impact.
The police are sourcing firecrackers from production districts such as Sivakasi and selling them at reasonable prices.
People are all geared up to celebrate Diwali, the festival of lights, with great pomp and enthusiasm. Lighting diyas, sharing sweets, exchanging gifts, and lighting firecrackers — all these play a crucial role in the festivities. Now, the firecracker sales for Diwali have started at Tamil Nadu’s Thiruvarur District Police Armed Forces Ground. The police are sourcing firecrackers from production districts such as Sivakasi and selling them at reasonable prices. This initiative aims to minimise environmental impact, and all sales are conducted under valid government licences.
The yearly firecracker sale is in progress this year, offering a diverse range of fireworks. Colourful firecrackers suitable for both children and adults are on sale, including new types as well. Prices for these items range from Rs 100 rupees to Rs 4,500. Policemen and civilians are regularly purchasing firecrackers.
The Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board has released an advisory, permitting the bursting of crackers during Diwali but with specified time slots. According to the advisory, individuals are authorised to burst crackers only between 6 am to 7 am and 7 pm to 8 pm.
In the last five years, the Tamil Nadu government has set designated timings for firecracker use. The advisory underscores the importance of following the Supreme Court’s directives, urging individuals to adhere to guidelines for a safe and pollution-free Diwali celebration.
Recommended practices involve selecting firecrackers with minimal pollution and noise impact, and opting for a communal area with permission from the district administration or local bodies through local welfare associations.
The advised precautions include refraining from bursting connected firecrackers that generate excessive noise and avoiding use of firecrackers near hospitals, schools, courts, religious places, and fire-prone areas, according to the advisory.
In Delhi, the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) announced a comprehensive ban on firecrackers throughout the national capital until January 1, 2024. This ban encompasses the manufacturing, storage, bursting, and sale of all types of crackers, including green crackers.