Ban on firecrackers remains, no fresh order needed: Pollution Control Board, Assam

STAFF REPORTER

GUWAHATI: The order banning the use and sale of firecrackers will remain in force during Dipawali, a senior official of Pollution Control Board, Assam (PCBA) said here on Sunday. On October 22, the PCBA had imposed a complete ban on the bursting and selling of firecrackers to curb air pollution during the Dipawali celebration in the State.

However, three days later, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said that the government would review the PCBA's order keeping people's sentiments in mind'. HE said that the PCBA issued the order without 'any consultation' with the State government.

Confusion prevails following the Chief Minister's statement as many people are set to celebrate the Dipawali in a big way.

On October 29, the Supreme Court clarified that there was no total ban on the use of firecrackers but only fireworks with barium salts were prohibited. Fireworks with barium compounds produce more smoke when they burn. "It is made clear that there is no total ban on the use of firecrackers," the court said.

The PCBA on Sunday clarified that the order banning firecrackers will remain in force during the festival season from Dipawali to Christmas.

"No fresh order will be issued. This order will remain in force. The Supreme Court also reiterates the ban," the official said.

"We have asked all Deputy Commissioners (DCs) and Superintendents of Police (SPs) to implement the order and also ask the state police to take action against those who violate the norms," he said.

Notably, the State government is yet to issue any directive in this regard.

"We have not received any instruction from the government," Kamrup Metro Deputy Commissioner Biswajit Pegu told The Sentinel. According to the PCBA and Supreme Court order, the administration can allow the people to burst green crackers during a two-hour window.

Echoing a similar tune, Guwahati Commissioner of Police Harmeet Singh clarified that the police would follow the government instruction in the Dipawali celebration. "Till now we have not received any instruction from the government. We will follow what the government says," Singh added.

Also Read: On Firecrackers Ban During Diwali, Assam CM Himanta Says PCB Issued Notice Without Govt Consultation

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