Dispur to review firecrackers' ban by PCBA

STAFF REPORTER

GUWAHATI: The Government of Assam will review the restriction on the sale and bursting of firecrackers imposed by the PCBA (Pollution Control Board, Assam), indicated Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma here on Monday. On October 22, the PCBA issued a notification, imposing restrictions on the sale and bursting of firecrackers during Dipawali, Chhath and Christmas.

While the green crackers have been allowed, the PCBA has set time limits on when they can be burst — 8 pm to 10 pm during Dipawali, 6 pm to 8 pm on Chhath and 11.55 pm to 12.30 am on Christmas and also the New Year's Eve.

In the notification, the PCBA cited rulings by the NGT (National Green Tribunal) and underlined that chemicals released during the bursting of firecrackers have a severe impact on respiratory health.

Such pollution can aggravate the symptoms of Covid-19 patients, added the notification. "The ban on the sale and bursting of firecrackers in Assam was imposed by the State pollution control body without consulting the State government. It is now being reviewed keeping people's sentiments in mind," Sarma told reporters here.

Taking to his Twitter handle to raise the issue, Chief Minister Sarma said, "The Assam Pollution Control Board has, reportedly, suo motu, without any consultation with the Government, issued an order banning the sale of firecrackers also imposed other restrictions."

"We've taken note of this. The entire issue is being reviewed afresh, holistically, keeping people's sentiments in mind," tweeted the Chief Minister.

Pollution caused by the bursting of firecrackers has come under the spotlight over the past few years, with several States banning the sale and bursting of firecrackers during the festival season.

In addition to this, other than the specified festivals, prior permission of the Deputy Commissioners of the districts concerned will be required for the use of only the 'Green crackers' for a limited period (not more than two hours) in the States.

Also Read: Pollution Control Board Assam issued guidelines on firecrackers

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