Diwali 2024: List of States Banning Firecrackers Amid Rising Pollution Concerns

As pollution levels rise and Diwali nears, several Indian states have issued bans on firecrackers to mitigate air quality degradation. Only 'green' crackers are allowed, aiming to curb pollution levels during the festive season. Here's a rundown of states imposing firecracker restrictions.

Full List of States Enforcing Firecracker Bans

Delhi: All types of firecrackers are banned across the National Capital Territory until January 1, 2025. Recently, Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai urged Lt. Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena to act against illegal firecracker sales. The city has seen persistently poor air quality, prompting strict measures.

Permitted Times for Firecracker Use in Delhi:

• Diwali (October 31): 8 pm  10 pm
• Gurpurab (November 15): 4 am  5 am and 9 pm  10 pm
• Christmas (December 2526): 11:55 pm  12:30 am
• New Year 's Eve (December 31  January 1): 11:55 pm  12:30 am

Haryana: Similar to Delhi, Haryana permits firecracker usage only for specified durations during Diwali, Gurpurab, and Christmas, with green crackers allowed between 8 pm and 10 pm on Diwali and Gurpurab, and from 11:55 pm to 12:30 am on Christmas.

Bihar : All firecrackers, including green crackers, are banned in cities like Patna, Gaya, Hajipur, and Muzaffarpur, following National Green Tribunal (NGT) directives to maintain air quality.

West Bengal: Following NGT guidelines, West Bengal allows only green crackers, known to produce 30% less pollution. The state has banned other firecracker types to protect air quality.

Maharashtra:  Maharashtra upholds the NGT's directive by restricting firecracker use to only green crackers to reduce pollution levels.

Punjab: Under the Environment (Protection) Act, Punjab has introduced strict rules, allowing firecrackers on select festivals, including Diwali, Gurpurab, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve, with usage confined to limited hours.

Tamil Nadu: Unique to Tamil Nadu, residents are encouraged to burst crackers during designated time slots: 6 am  7 am and 7 pm  8 pm on Diwali. The state has issued advisories promoting responsible cracker use.

This Diwali, these states aim to blend festive joy with environmental responsibility, striving for a cleaner, greener celebration.