Karnataka has restricted Deepavali fireworks to a two-hour window from 8pm to 10pm between November 8 and 10, while allowing only certified green crackers across the state. The directions were issued after a review meeting chaired by environment and ecology minister Ramalinga Reddy with officials from the department and the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board.
The state government said the restrictions follow the Supreme Court’s directions and are intended to curb noise and air pollution during the festive period, which coincides with the winter season. Reddy said instructions had been sent to all district administrations and enforcement agencies to ensure compliance with the court’s orders.
Deputy commissioners, superintendents of police and local municipal administrations have been directed to enforce the permitted hours. District authorities must also prevent fireworks from being used near hospitals, educational institutions and other prohibited areas.
The government has cautioned residents and traders to use only green crackers carrying the prescribed green cracker mark and QR code. District environmental officers will verify the markings during vigilance drives. Fireworks without the required identification will not be recognised as green crackers and may be seized.
To support enforcement, deputy commissioners have been asked to form district-level task forces. These teams will include fire department officials, health officers, tahsildars, district environmental officers, police personnel, citizens and representatives of non-governmental organisations. Their responsibilities will include inspecting fireworks dealers’ warehouses across the districts.
If prohibited fireworks are found in stock, the entire warehouse may be sealed and criminal cases initiated against those responsible, the government said. The commercial taxes department and police have also been instructed to intercept banned fireworks being transported illegally from other states. Vehicles used for such transport may be confiscated through the Transport Department.
The enforcement plan places district administrations and municipal bodies at the centre of implementation. Apart from monitoring the sale and use of fireworks, local bodies have been asked to ensure the scientific disposal of solid waste generated during the celebrations. This adds post-festival waste management to the state’s measures on air and noise pollution.
The government will conduct awareness campaigns at metro and railway stations, bus stands and shopping malls using posters, pamphlets and audio-visual material. Local television and radio channels will also be involved in communicating the health effects of fireworks.
Reddy appealed to residents to celebrate Deepavali by lighting more lamps and reducing the use of fireworks. The minister said responsible celebrations would help reduce pollution and protect children, senior citizens, birds and animals. The restrictions will apply during the three-day period from November 8 to 10, with enforcement agencies responsible for monitoring compliance.
