Diwali 2024: Considering the deterioration in air quality during the festive season, several states have imposed a complete ban on firecrackers during the Diwali season. To address environmental concerns, strict regulations on the use of firecrackers have been enforced in several states, such as Delhi, Punjab, Haryana and Tamil Nadu. These regulations were aimed at reducing the deterioration of air quality during this festive period.

Delhi imposes total ban on firecrackers

Commonly known for poor air quality every winter, the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) has imposed a complete ban on the manufacturing, storage, sale and use of firecrackers until January 1, 2025. This includes online sales. However, the city only allows “green crackers”, which are less harmful, during limited hours – from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Diwali, with adjusted timings for Gurpurab, Christmas and New Year’s Eve. Greens are free of toxic chemicals like barium and lead.

Bihar bans firecrackers

Authorities in the state of Bihar have completely banned all types of firecrackers, including green alternatives, in major cities such as Patna, Gaya, Muzaffarpur and Hajipur.

Maharashtra monitors firecracker sales

Maharashtra imposed a complete ban on firecrackers and allowed only green crackers which produce around 30% less pollution than traditional crackers. Additionally, Mumbai Police has banned the use and sale of sky lanterns from October 23 to November 24.

Karnataka only allows green crackers

The Karnataka government has only allowed green crackers during Diwali and has suggested restricting the use of fireworks to specific times between 8 p.m. and 10 p.m., although no formal ban has been issued.