Mumbai: Mumbai’s Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has issued guidelines limiting firecracker use for Diwali 2024, restricting the allowed hours to 7 PM – 10 PM to curb air and noise pollution. Following a Bombay High Court order, these restrictions aim to reduce pollution levels and encourage environmentally responsible celebrations. This year, BMC has also urged citizens to opt for noiseless crackers, especially given concerns over the city’s worsening air quality.
The Bombay High Court bench, led by Chief Justice D.K. Upadhyaya, emphasized that while Diwali should be celebrated, it is crucial to consider health and environmental impacts. “We need a balance; citizens must decide if they want a healthy environment or continued firecracker use,” stated Chief Justice Upadhyaya. The court also referenced previous issues, such as fires caused by sky lanterns, prompting additional bans on selling or using them during the festival period.
In line with these measures, BMC has enforced specific rules for vehicles transporting construction materials, another significant contributor to air pollution, requiring these vehicles to be covered to reduce dust in the air. Authorities have noted the importance of these steps given the elevated air pollution levels that frequently spike during the festival season.
This year’s measures reflect broader efforts by municipal and legal bodies in Maharashtra to address urban air quality and public health concerns during festive times. The court continues to monitor the air quality impact and plans further hearings in November, assessing whether additional regulations may be necessary to keep Mumbai’s air cleaner.
(By Sumit Singh, Web Team at C6N)
