Chandigarh's Green Diwali Initiative Continues: Only Eco-Friendly Crackers Allowed This Festive Season

As the festive glow of Diwali approaches, Chandigarh is once again setting a commendable precedent for environmental responsibility. The Union Territory administration has reaffirmed its commitment to cleaner air, mandating that only 'green crackers' will be permitted for celebration this year, upholding a directive aimed at protecting public health and the environment.

This move is not new for Chandigarh, which has consistently prioritized ecological well-being during the festive season.

The decision stems from the standing orders issued by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) and the Supreme Court, which emphasize stringent measures to combat air pollution, especially during periods when cracker use historically spikes pollution levels to hazardous extremes.

Deputy Commissioner Vinay Pratap Singh has issued prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the CrPC, effectively banning conventional fireworks across the city.

The focus remains squarely on green crackers – specifically those developed by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) through its National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI). These innovative crackers are designed to produce significantly less air and noise pollution, using formulations that avoid harmful chemicals like barium salts.

Residents keen to participate in the age-old tradition of lighting up the night sky must adhere to strict guidelines.

The window for bursting green crackers is limited to just two hours: from 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM on the night of Diwali. This specific timeframe is crucial for minimizing the cumulative impact of emissions and ensuring better air quality for everyone.

Furthermore, the sale of these approved green crackers is tightly regulated.

They can only be purchased from licensed vendors, who must ensure that their products carry the necessary certification and are genuinely eco-friendly. Crucially, the online sale of any type of firecracker, green or conventional, has been explicitly prohibited to prevent the distribution of illegal or non-compliant products.

The administration's resolve to enforce these regulations is firm.

Any individual found violating these orders, whether by selling or bursting conventional crackers, or exceeding the stipulated timings, will face legal consequences under Section 188 of the Indian Penal Code (disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant) and provisions of the Environment Protection Act, 1986.

This stringent approach underscores Chandigarh's dedication to fostering a healthy, breathable environment for its citizens.

This Diwali, Chandigarh invites its residents to embrace a celebration that sparkles with joy while also shining a light on environmental consciousness. By opting for green crackers and respecting the guidelines, the city can enjoy a festive season that is both vibrant and responsible, setting a shining example for sustainable celebrations nationwide.