Bengaluru: Karnataka has directed the use of only certified green crackers during Diwali celebrations from November 8 to 10, with bursting permitted exclusively between 8pm and 10pm, Forest, Ecology and Environment Minister Ramalinga Reddy said.
The minister has instructed the department’s Additional Chief Secretary to ensure strict implementation of the Supreme Court’s directions aimed at curbing noise and air pollution during the festival.
As part of the enforcement drive, district commissioners, police superintendents and local body officials have been asked to ensure compliance. District-level task forces comprising revenue, police, fire, health and environmental officials, along with citizens and NGO representatives, will inspect firecracker warehouses.
Warehouses found stocking prohibited crackers will be seized, and criminal cases will be registered against those responsible, the minister said.
QR code, green emblem mandatory
All green crackers and their packaging must carry the prescribed green-cracker emblem and QR code. District environmental officers will verify their authenticity. Crackers without these markings will not be considered green crackers and will be seized.
The government has also directed authorities to prohibit the use of firecrackers near hospitals, educational institutions and other restricted areas. The minister urged people to ensure that celebrations do not cause distress to animals, birds, children and senior citizens.
Border checks to prevent illegal transport
Inspections will be conducted at commercial tax check-posts along the state’s borders to prevent the illegal transportation of banned crackers from other states. Prohibited firecrackers will be confiscated, and vehicles used to transport them may also be seized.
The minister has asked local authorities to conduct awareness campaigns through posters, pamphlets, audio-visual messages and local television and radio channels. Public places such as Metro stations, railway stations, bus terminals and shopping malls will be covered.
Local bodies have also been directed to ensure scientific disposal of solid waste generated during the festival.
Reddy said the restrictions on bursting firecrackers between 8pm and 10pm must be strictly enforced by the police and local authorities.
