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The Rajasthan government, in partnership with the Department of Environment and Climate Change, has introduced new rules for using fireworks, aiming to reduce pollution and protect public health. These guidelines come just in time for major celebrations like Diwali, Christmas, and New Year's Eve, setting specific timings and restrictions on the type of firecrackers that can be used.
For Diwali, residents in some districts of Rajasthan can enjoy fireworks only between 8 pm and 10 pm. This limited two-hour window seeks to balance festive joy with the need to reduce air pollution, which has been rising in many areas of northern India. The guidelines are even stricter for residents in Alwar and Bharatpur, both part of the National Capital Region (NCR), where only "green" fireworks are allowed. These green crackers produce less pollution than regular fireworks, helping to reduce the environmental impact of celebrations.
The new rules also address noise pollution. Lighting firecrackers is strictly banned within a hundred meters of silent zones, such as hospitals, schools, and places of worship. This measure ensures a peaceful environment for patients, students, and those in sensitive areas.
For Christmas and New Year celebrations, residents can only use fireworks from 11:55 pm to 12:30 am, a 35-minute window that allows people to welcome the new year in a safe and environmentally friendly way. As with Diwali, only green crackers are allowed during these celebrations. The government's aim is to let people enjoy the festivities while being mindful of the environment.
In addition to setting these timing restrictions, the government has banned the sale of any unauthorized firecrackers, ensuring that only approved green crackers are available to the public. To ensure everyone follows the guidelines, police stations across Rajasthan have been instructed to monitor and enforce these rules. Furthermore, schools and colleges are working with students to spread awareness about the environmental and health effects of fireworks, promoting safe and responsible use.
Rajasthan's approach is similar to those in other northern states, such as Delhi, Gurugram, and Punjab. For example, Gurugram allows only green crackers during Diwali, while Punjab enforces a two-hour time limit. In Delhi, a stricter rule is in place, with a complete ban on the sale of firecrackers due to the severe pollution concerns in the area.
The Rajasthan government's new rules represent a comprehensive plan to reduce pollution, protect public health, and ensure responsible celebrations. By setting specific timings and only allowing eco-friendly crackers, Rajasthan joins other states in taking strong steps to address pollution during the festive season.
